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The best course of action is to make no decision for the time being

by editorfz
written by editorfz

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Mordad 1397 (July-August 2018):

The best course of action is to make no decision for the time being

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Mordad 1397 [Iranian month corresponding to 23 July to 22 August 2018]:

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the signing of a contract about the Caspian Sea and considered the signing of that agreement in the current situation is not in Iran’s political interests.

This people-instituted organisation has written in its reports: ”During the month of Mordad, when Iran faced intense popular protests and economic issues created serious problems for the state and the citizens, and from a diplomatic point of view too, Iran faced serious conflicts on the international arena with some countries of the region and with the United States, a delegation headed by the president traveled to Kazakhstan, where an agreement  was signed, the exact details of which have not yet been communicated to the public and the media.”

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights added: ”Given the above-mentioned conditions and in view of the influence of Russia in Iran, the signing of such a contract is not in the country’s political interests. Instead, Iran should have adopted a non-committal approach, as was the case 20 years ago, so as to be able to arrive at a decision about signing that agreement later on, at a more appropriate juncture. In other words, the best political action is to make no decision at the present time.”

Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.

According to the website of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said centre for the month of Mordad 1397, which has been published on 5th Shahrivar 1397 [27 August 2018], is as follows:

 

A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in July-August 2018

Introduction:

The Caspian Sea is in the north of Iran, and in the past, two agreements had been signed with the Soviet Union about it. After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the creation of a set of new states, the lake found itself surrounded by five countries. In the last 20 years, there has been a series of legal disputes about how to use the sea and its resources. This was because in addition to its oil resources and fishing potentials, the lake can also be used to transport oil and gas. For this reason, and also due to political backgrounds, some disagreements have emerged among the concerned states.

During Mordad, when Iran faced intense popular protests and economic issues created serious problems for the state and the citizens, and from a diplomatic point of view too, Iran faced serious conflicts on the international arena with some countries of the region and with the United States, a delegation headed by the president traveled to Kazakhstan, where an agreement  was signed, the exact details of which have not yet been communicated to the public and the media..

In view of these circumstances, and given the influence of Russia in Iran, the signing of such a contract is not in the country’s political interests. Instead, Iran should have adopted a non-committal approach, as was the case 20 years ago, so as to be able to arrive at a decision about signing that agreement later on, at a more appropriate juncture. In other words, the best political action is to make no decision at the present time

The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Mordad 1397, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in July-August 2018

 

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights

 

  1. A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists 
  2. During this month, more than 38 people were detained and the names of them have been specified as: Behnam Ebrahimzadeh – a labourer activist; Farhad Meysami – a civil activist; Zia Nabavi – a former student activist; Qasem Sholesadi, Arash Keikhosravi, Hossein Ahmadiniaz and Masud Javadieh – four lawyers; Dorna Esmaeili, Negar Misaqian, Human Esmaeili, Pejman Shahriari, Kurosh Ruhani, Mahbub Habibi and Mehran Bandi Amirabadi – seven Baha’i citizens; Mohammad Davari – a civil activist; Elaheh Nematollahi – a member of the Gonabadi Darwishes Sect; Ali Kakavand – a cultural activist; and Farhad Jahanbeigi, a media activist.

On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Majed Savari – a citizen from Ahvaz; Abdolatif Miranzehi – a citizen from Zarabad – and Arman Ghafuri – a citizen from Marivan.

Hassan Saeidi, Davud Razavi, Ata Babakhani, Ali Qorbanian – four labour activists – and Mohammad Nurizad – a political activist – have been detained for a short time.

Moreover, some news media have reported the detention of 10 individuals in Shiraz – without mentioning their names – who have been described as the teachers of the Erfaneh Halqeh [The Mystic Ring] sect. The prosecutor of Qarchak has reported the detention of two individuals in this city due to street protests, and other individuals without mentioning their names because of writing slogans against the political system.

There are other cases of arrest of protesting citizens in Mordad 1397: the detention of some citizens in cities such as Oshnavieh, Kamyaran, Sanandaj, Kermanshah, Piranshahr, Paveh, Dalahu, Marivan, Ravansar, Orumieh, Ilam due to various reasons such as communicating and cooperating with anti-regime Kurdish parties; the detention of some citizens in the cities of Khuzestan Province for various pretexts such as participation in street protests; the detention of some citizens in the Azeri-speaking towns after they staged a ceremony in the Sabalan Mountain’s hostel, and the detention of some citizens in Alborz Province, who had taken part in street protests, as they tried to attend ceremonies marking the death anniversary of Ahmad Shamlu [famous poem] at his burial ground.

It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.

 

In addition, some news sources have reported the detention of Morteza Allahverdi – a Baluch citizen; Naser Rigi – a Sunni religious activist – and Hamed Ayenehvand – a civil activist – during the last days of the month of Tir.

  1. Majid Azarpey – a political activist – was sent to prison to spend a six and half year term; Kurosh Porsetareh – a citizen from Bushehr – was sent to jail for three months imprisonment; Mehran Eslami Amirabadi – a Baha’i citizen – was sent to prison to spend one and half years there; Mahintaj Ahmadpur – a citizen from Tonekabon – was sent to jail to spend 10 months in detention; Bakhtiar Arefi – a teacher – was sent to prison for a 18 months sentence; Yusef Nodorkhani, Mohammadali Mosayebzadeh, Mohammadreza Omidi and Zaman Fadaei – four Christian citizens – were sent to prison to spend 10 years each in jail.

Moreover, the 74 lashes sentence of Mohammad Mozafari – a political activist – was executed.

  1. Mohammad Habibi – a teachers’ union activist – was sentenced to 10 and half years imprisonment, 7.5 years of which is custodial, as well as a two years ban from leaving the country and engaging in activities in political parties and social organisations and groups, and finallhy 74 lashes; Gholamhossein Karbaschi – the secretary of the Iran Executives of Construction Party [and former mayor of Tehran] – was sentenced to one year in jail; Seyyed Tabib Taqizadeh – a media activist – was sentenced to two years of suspended imprisonment and five years ban from professional media activities, three years ban from activities in political parties and groups, three years ban from activity in cyberspace and three years ban from leaving the country; Mohammadreza Fakhraeirad – a writer and poet – was sentenced to three years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and a fine of 200,000 Toman; Pedram Pazireh – a university student activist – was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes; Amirhossein (Mir Mohammadhossein) Miresmaeili – a journalist – was sentenced to 10 years in jail, two years ban from activity in media and cyberspace, two years ban from leaving the country and a fine; Farzad Delaram – a Baha’i citizen – was sentenced to one year in prison; Shapur Jozi and Parastu Zariftash – two newly converted Christians – each were sentenced to one year imprisonment; Bakhtiar Khoshnam – a civil activist – was sentenced to 74 lashes sentence and a fine of 18,000,000 Rials; Mohammad Sani – a teacher form Bushehr – was sentenced to two years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Amirsaman Dashti – a newly converted Christian – was sentenced to four months in prison; Shoja Hosseinzadeh – a manager of a [social media platform] Telegram channel – was sentenced to 74 lashes sentence and Kavus Kiani – a former political prisoner – was sentenced to 10 years in jail.

In addition, the sentences of some members of the Gonabadi Darwishes Sect who are currently in prison, are as follow:

Sepideh Moradi was sentenced to five years in jail and two years ban from leaving the country and two years ban from attending political parties and groups and activity in cyberspace; Shokufeh Yadollahi was sentenced to five years in prison and two years ban from social and media activities; Sina Entesari was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Mirjaveh, two years ban from leaving the country, and two years of ban from social activities; Saleh Moradinia was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Borazjan; Elham Ahmadi was sentenced to five years in jail, two years ban from social activities and two years ban from leaving the country; Khashayar Dehqan was sentenced to seven years imprisonment, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Borzjan; Kasra Nuri was sentenced to 12 years in jail, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Solasbabajani, two years ban from leaving the country  and two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups and media activities; Sediqeh Safabakht was sentenced to five years in prison, two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups and two years ban from activity in mass media; Mohammad Sharifimoqadam was sentenced to 12 years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Borazjan and two years social exclusions and ban from leaving the country; Reza Entesari was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Khaf, two years ban from leaving the country and two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups and media activities; Mostafa Abdi was sentenced to 26 years and three month imprisonment, 148 lashes sentence, two years exile to Sistan Va Baluchestan Province, two years ban from leaving the country and two years ban from engaging in activities in political and social parties and groups, and also in any media work; Mostafa Mirmohammadi was sentenced to 13 and half years in prison, 148 lashes, two years ban from leaving the country and two years exile to Sistan Va Baluchestan; Babak Moradi was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Saravan in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province; Mahmud Boghyar was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years of social exclusions; Saeid Durandish was sentenced to seven years in prison and two years exile to Zabol; Ahmad Iranikhah was sentenced to seven years imprisonment and two years exile to Borazjan; Amir Nuri was sentenced to six years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years ban from leaving the country; Mohammadqasem Allahyari was sentenced to two years in prison; Vahid Khamushi was sentenced to 12 years in jail and two years exile to Rayen; Alireza Azadravesh was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Kahnuj; Ali Karimi was sentenced to seven years in prison, two years exile to Borazjan and 74 lashes sentence; Ehsan Malekmohammadi was sentenced to seven years in prison, two years exile to Zabol and 74 lashes sentence; Ehsan Safari was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Zabol; Armin Abolfathi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Morteza Sohrabpur was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Saeid Khamushi was sentenced to seven years imprisonment and 74 lashes sentence; Mohammadasad zamani was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Masud Alimadadi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Majid Rashidi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Amir Seyyedi was sentenced to seven years in prison and 74 lashes sentence; Afshin Salimi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Ali Salimi was sentenced to seven years in prison and 74 lashes sentence; Mohammadreza Abolfathi was sentenced to seven years in prison and 74 lashes sentence; Majid Amirahmadi was sentenced to seven years in prison and 74 lashes sentence; Hamidreza Amirahmadi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Mohammadreza Zahtab was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Ebrahim Allahbakhshi was sentenced to seven years in prison and 74 lashes sentence; Nemat Kazemi was sentenced to seven years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Babak Taqian was sentenced to seven years in jail; Mostafa Armandust was sentenced to seven years in jail; Mehran Asgharzadeh was sentenced to seven years in prison; Amin Hosseini was sentenced to six years in jail and 74 lashes sentence; Asghar Samadyar was sentenced to five years in jail; Amirbahador Jafari was sentenced to three years in prison; Meysam Azizan was sentenced to three years in prison; Malek Rezaei was sentenced to two years in jail; Aliasghar Salari was sentence to two years imprisonment; Elyas Mohammadi was sentenced to two years in jail; Mohamamd Amirahmadi was sentenced to two years in jail; Ali Bolboli was sentenced to two years in prison; Ashkan Kazemi was sentenced to two years in jail; Musa Fazlipur was sentenced to two years in prison; Mhedi Sa’adat was sentenced to one year in prison; Hashem Avazeh was sentenced to one year in prison; and Majid Shayeq was sentenced to one year in prison.

Furthermore, another member of the Darwishes sect, Ebrahim Rezaei, was sentenced to one year in jail; Reza Yavari was sentenced to nine years in prison, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile to Taybad; Saeid Karimiaei was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups and two years exile to Nahbandan; Sajjad Razmi was sentenced to seven years in jail, two years ban from leaving the country, 74 lashes sentence and two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups; Behruz Sadeqi Aliyaei was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years ban from attending political and social parties and groups and two years exile to Saravan; Morteza Shokri was sentenced to seven years in jail, 74 lashes sentence and two years exile; Mohamamd Samadyar was sentenced to seven years in prison, two years ban from activity in cyberspace and 74 lashes sentence; Mehdi Mahdavifar was sentenced to 13 and half years in prison, 148 lashes sentence, two years exile to Nikshahr in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province and two years ban from social activities; Bashir Riahi was sentenced to 10 and half years in prison, 148 lashes sentence, two years exile to Khaf in Sistan Va Baluchstan Province and two years ban from social activities; Sekhavat Salimi was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Nikshahr in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province and two years ban from social activities; Abolfazl Sahraei was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Sarbisheh in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province and two years ban from social activities; Rostam Sagvand was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Nahbandan in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province and two years ban from social activities; Morteza Kangarlu was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Sarbisheh in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province and two years ban from social activities; Ardeshir Ashayeri was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Saravan and two years ban from social activities; Saeid Soltanpur was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Zahak in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province; Mohammadreza Darwishi was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Nahavandan; Mohammad Karimiaei was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Sohraj; Alireza Lak was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Manujan; Habin Qanbari was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Iranshahr; Mehdi Izadpanah was sentenced to five years in jail and two years exile to Sirjan; Mehrdad Rezaei was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Sarbaz in Sistan Va Baluchestan Province; Mansur Farahmand was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Tabas; Abolfazl Avazeh was sentenced to six years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Mirjaveh; Ali Qamari was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Hirmand; Mahmud Barakuhi was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Kahnuj; Heidar Teimuri was sentenced to seven years in prison, 74 lashes sentence, two years exile to Khash.

In addition, Maryam Farsiabi was released after spending the sentences of six months imprisonment and two years ban from leaving the country.

On the other hand, the appeals courts have confirmed the following sentences: 21,000,000 Rilas fine instead of four months imprisonment and 70 lashes sentence for Beitollah Barzegar, Sina Qorbani Ershadi and Siamak Qardashi – three Azarbaijani activists; one-year imprisonment sentence of Mohammad Ebrahimi – a civil activist; two and half years imprisonment for Ruhieh Nariman – a Baha’i citizen; one years and half imprisonment sentence and one year exile to Saravan for Mehran Eslami Amirabadi – a Baha’i citizen; one year and half imprisonment sentence and one year exile to Divandareh for Mehran Bandi Amirabadi – a Baha’i citizen; three years of suspended imprisonment for Sorur Forughi Mahdiabadi, Farzad Ruhani Manshadi, Ramin Hosuri Sharafabadi, Ahmadali Tadrisi and Ahmad Jafari Naeimi – five Baha’i citizen – and one and half years imprisonment and one year exile to Minab for Zabohollah Raufi – a Baha’i – citizen.

Moreover, The Supreme Court has upheld the sentence of five years imprisonment for Mohammadali Taheri – the leader of the Erfaneh Halqeh Group [The Mystic Ring]. The appeal court reduced the imprisonment sentence of Farokh Abdi – a Telegram activist – to 15 months.

  1. Ejlal Qavami – a civil activist – and Mohammadhadi Abbaszadeh – a citizen from Khoy – were temporarily released on bail until the trial after they received a briefing about the allegations against them. In addition, Parastu Salehi – an actress – was summoned to the “monitoring and follow-up unit” of the Judiciary.
  2. Relevant officials seized some of personal belongings of Reza Khandan, Mohammadreza (Davud) Farhadpur and Jila Makvandi – three civil activists – after searching their houses.

 

  1. B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
  2. 1. The Press Jury found the editor in chiefs of “Zanburan” and “Bulletin News” monthlies guilty.
  3. Relevant officials prevented Romina Asgari – a Baha’i citizen – from studying at the university.
  4. Relevant officials prevented the holding of the 18th anniversary of Ahmad Shamlu’s death – a poet.
  5. Relevant officials prevented the holding of Eid al-Adha’s prayers in some Sunni prayer halls in Tehran.

 

  1. C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
  2. 1. Some 12 individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:

Some six individuals have been executed in Mashhad and three in Bojnurd. Judiciary officials said their crime was armed robbery. In addition, three individuals were executed in Minab. News media reported that their crime was rape.

On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported executions in the prisons of Gachsaran, Rasht, Shirvan, Rajaei Shahr in Karaj, Ardebil, Tabriz, Bandarabbas, Oromieh and Zahedan. These reports have not been confirmed or denied by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.

  1. News media in Iran have reported the issuance of death sentences for five individuals in Tehran Province because of the crime of first-degree murder.

Moreover, The Supreme Court confirmed the death sentence for three individuals in Tehran province because of murder.

  1. News media in Iran have reported the issuance of lashes sentence for one individual in Tehran Province because of harassing a girl.
  2. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavourable to the extent that some of them – such Yaser Sharifipur and Mohammad Davari – are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment.
  3. Farhad Meysami, Ali Badrkhani, Farhad Aryaei, Nameq Deldel, Iraj Mohammadi and Qasme Absteh went on hunger strike in protest at what they claim to be undesirable conditions for prisoners and the violations of their legal rights and priviledges.
  4. Sepideh Moradi and Shokufeh Yadollahi – two members of the Gonabadi Darwishes Sect – refused to attend their court hearings, for the third time, in protest against the deprivation of the Darwishes from the right of having a lawyer and failure to comply with legal procedures during the trial.
  5. Ramin Hosseinpanahi, Anvar Khezri, Khosro Besharat and Kamran Sheikheh were transferred to Rajaei Shahr Prison. Alireza Tavakoli was transferred to the security ward No.209 of Evin Prison from the public ward and Kamal Hosneramezan was transferred to the detention centre of the Intelligence Organisation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps from Orumieh Prison. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
  6. Relevant officials prevented the burying of Abbas Kholusi – a Baha’i citizen – in Kerman and forced his family to bury him in Rafsanjan.
  7. A Judiciary official has reported the detention of 40 individuals in Birjand because of attending a party.
  8. News media in Iran have reported the detention of six individuals in Dezful because of removing their veils and publishing some pictures in cyberspace.

 

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights

Reports concerning the situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example, news reveals unsatisfactory employment and legal rights of workers in a number of units such as: workers of “Omran Suleh”, Esfahan Municipality, Sardasht Municipality, Lushan Municipality, Omidieh Municipality, “Air Cast Shawnberg” Cooperation, Haft Tapeh Sugar Cane Complex, Nur Neyriz Sport Ring Cooperation, Mehrpush Avalan Factory in Sanandaj, Technical railway line of the country, “Iran Counter Making Factory”, Talesh Rubber Dam, “Gostaresh Rahahan” Cooperation, sacked workers of Nilu Tile Factory, personnel of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Karaj and state equity co-operative, ….. and some pre-school coaches of Karun.

  1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:

Workers of Alvand Municipality for three months, Safarud Dam for seven months, “Borujerd Textile Factory” for two months, Sadeh Municipality for four months, “Iran Chuka” Factory for three months, Iran Switch Factory for seven months, Ahvaz National Steel Group for four months, Ahvaz underground train for 18 months, Compressor Making Factory in Tabriz for six months, “Moqadam Fabric” Complex for six months and Banta Abidar Commercial Complex Construction Project in Sanandaj for six months, around 25 hostess of “Borna Railgostar of Tehran” for three months and the firefighters of Khorramabad Municipality for three months.

  1. Around 20 workers of Tabas Municipality were sacked from their jobs.

In addition, around 200 workers of Kavosh (Sanka) Reservoir Manufacturer, around 52 workers of Lamard Municipality and the workers of Kian Factory were sacked by the closure of these trading units.

  1. The working place of Javad Zabihian – a Baha’i citizen – was sealed. Moreover, Sahba Haqbin, Samira Behinaein and Payam Gashtasbi – three Baha’i citizens – were fired from their jobs.
  2. Police have reported the sealing of 38 trading units due to what has been called selling unconventional clothes.

 

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment

Reports concerning the environmental issues in Iran during Mordad also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas to the extent that the density of dust particles in the air reached to 30 times more than the permitted level in some cities of Sistan Va Baluchestan.

In addition, one individual was injured in Paveh due to land mine explosion.

Conclusion:

At the end of the report for the month of Mordad of 1397, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights declares that, according to the Constitution, contracts such as the one on the Caspian Sea status should be approved by the Majlis. Therefore, such a contract does not have any legal validity without the parliament’s approval. If the Majlis does not approve the Caspian Sea contract, then it will be possible to discuss another agreement in the future and at the right time.

END

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Amnesty: Release all individuals arrested solely for demonstrating peacefully and investigate killing of protester

by editorfz
written by editorfz

Amnesty International

8 August 2018

Following a wave of mass arrests in response to largely peaceful protests across Iran over the past week, Amnesty International is calling on the Iranian authorities to release any individual held solely for peacefully taking part in them. The authorities must also conduct a prompt, impartial and independent investigation into the killing of a protester in Karaj, north-west of the capital, Tehran, on 3 August 2018.

Amnesty International is also urging the authorities to protect all detainees from torture and other ill- treatment and to reveal the fate and whereabouts of dozens of detainees whose families have not heard from them since their arrests. Among those detained and at risk of torture and other ill-treatment is human rights defender Nader Afshari, who was arrested by Ministry of Intelligence officials on 1 August 2018 in the city of Karaj, north-west of Tehran, and whose whereabouts are unknown as he is being held in a secret detention facility.

Read the full statement here 

 

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Reports

Human rights situation in Iran from 21 April to 21 May 2018

by editorfz
written by editorfz

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Ordibehesht 1397 [Iranian month corresponding to 21 April to 21 May 2018]

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the non-violent form of protests, and stated that power-holders engaged in suppressing the protesters by resorting to different ploys and inflaming the campaign atmosphere.

This people-instituted organization has referred to the way the protests of Gonabadi Darwishes in Pasdaran Avenue in Tehran as an example and said: “The entry of the Basij force into a peaceful demonstration with the intentions to stir up and inflame the atmosphere, and as a result, security and judicial forces were given a free hand for extensive arrests and issuing unfair sentences. ”

The Center for the Defenders of Human Rights has referred to the situation of the arrested Darwishes and those who have been sent to the court after the completion of their indictments. It stated such behaviours were part of the injustice that has been committed against the most peaceful civil grouping, and therefore, demanded a halt to this process.

Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.

According to the website of the Centre for the Supporters of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Ordibehesht 1397, which has been published on 2nd of Khordad 1397 [23 May 2018], is as follows:

A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in April-May 2018

Introduction:

Non-violent protests and civil resistance are the most effective ways to force non-democratic governments to eventually give up power to its main owners, that is to say the “citizens”, and for this reason, they often face government violence. Even when protesters ultimately protest peacefully for their right, the proprietors of power resort to various tricks so as to infiltrate the campaign space and heavily suppress the protesters. The manner of dealing with the “Gonabadi Darwishes” and their protests is an example of such behaviour. During the final days of Bahman 1396 (month starting 21 Jan 2018), while they protested in a completely peaceful way about the unlawful house arrest of their leader (Dr. Nurali Tabandeh) and the arrest of several of their companions; the state’s monopolist wing, with the involvement of a number of Basij forces on the street, caused clashes and violence, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several Basij members and protesters.

The involvement of the Basij forces in a peaceful demonstration with the intentions to stirring up and inflaming the atmosphere, and as a result, the security and judicial forces were given a free hand for massive arrests and unfair sentencing, to the extent that on 29 Farvardin (18 Apr 2018), the prosecutor of Tehran has reported the issuance of 350 indictments against the detained Darwishes of Pasdaran Avenue. This is while a number of detainees are still under interrogation and no indictment has been issued against them as yet.

Based on the information received from their families, the detainees are being held in very bad conditions and have no right to choose their trusted lawyer, and especially, women who have been arrested are in Qarchak Prison, which lacks the basic facilities. Two of these women are seriously ill and need medical treatment. Such behaviours are only a part of the injustice that has been done against the most peaceful civil grouping, and this process must be stopped. Unfortunately, other similar behaviours are observed in relation with other civil protesters, and the undeniable result of this process is an increase in dissatisfaction and greater distance between the people and the Islamic Republic of Iran system. The continuation of this situation is not expedient and can lead to unfortunate consequences

The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Ordibehest 1397, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in April-May 2018

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights

  1. A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists 
  2. During this month, more than 34 people were detained; namely: Mohammad-Taqi Falahi, Rasul Bodaqi, Rahman Abedini, Alieh Eqdamdust, Esmaeil Gerami, Hossein Gholami, Mohammad Habibi and Javad Zenuzi – eight teacher-union activists; Yadollah Samadi, Amir Shahabi, Armin Sharifi, Osman Esmaeili – four labour activists; Shaparak Shajarizadeh and Maryam Shariatmadari – two citizens who were opposed to forced veil; Mitra Jamshidzadeh – a citizen; Mehdi Rahmanian – the editor in chief of Sharq Newspaper; and Amir-Hossein Miresmaeili – a journalist.

On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Kamran Ayazi – a former political prisoner; Neda Sabeti, Khodadad Miri, Nushin Afshar, Foruq Farzaneh, Mehrdad Heirani and Kaviz Nuzdehi – six Baha’i citizens; and Alam Azizi – a university student.

The central prosecutor of Khorasan Razavi has reported the detention of one individual without mentioning his name in Mashhad because of what has been called as “dependence on one of the opposition organizations”.

A number of defenders of teachers’ and workers’ rights were detained in front of the parliament following separate gatherings and some residents of Kazerun City were arrested because of street protests.

Moreover, some residents from the west of Iran were detained due to street protests and strikes.  The names of some of them are as follows: Mohsen Alizadeh, Behruz Osmani, Razgar Refahi and Zanyar Osmani – four citizens from Baneh City; Abubakr Mohammadi – a citizen from Javanrud; Rasul Ayubi – a citizen from Sardasht; Faruq Firuzi – a citizen from Saqez; and Akam Salehi – a citizen from Sanandaj.

It should be noted that, some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.

On the other hand, Abbas Edalat – a professor of a university in London – was arrested during the end of Esfand 1396 (March) and Aras Amiri – a university student in London – was arrested during the end of Esfand 1396.

  1. Mahyar Ahmadi – a citizen from Sanandaj – was sent to prison to spend three months imprisonment; Foad Keikhosravi – a citizen from Saqez – was sent to jail for six months; Farzad Sahraei – a citizen from Qom – was sent to jail to spend two years imprisonment and Zakaria Taha – a citizen from Oshnavieh – was sent to prison to spend one year in prison.
  2. Nematolah Bangaleh and Nazanin Bangaleh – two Baha’i citizens – each were sentenced to five years imprisonment; Alireza Sepahi-Laein – a writer and journalist from Khorasan – was sentenced to 74 lashes; Seyed Tabib Taqizadeh – a journalist – was sentenced to two years in jail which has been suspended for four years; Saeid Beigi – a political activist – was sentenced to five and half years imprisonment and two years ban from any political activity; Ata Rahmanzadeh – a citizen from Saqez was sentenced to one year in prison; Nader Majidian and Shahram Majidian – two citizens from Saqez – each were sentenced to six years imprisonment; Ali Ebadi – a citizen from Qom – was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment that five years of it will be executed; Hasan Badiei – a citizen from Qom – was sentenced to two years in jail and Ali Nuri – a civil activist and former political prisoner – was sentenced to seven and half years in prison.

Moreover, Mohammad-Ali (Piruz) Mansuri – who is currently in prison – was sentenced to five years imprisonment again in another case and Saeid Shirzad – who is currently in prison – was sentenced to six months in jail again for another case.

Also, the prosecutor of Tehran has reported the issuance of different sentences for 16 women due to what has been called as “membership in ISIS” and some of Gonabadi Darwishes.

On the other hand, the appeal court confirmed the five years suspended imprisonment sentence of Saman Karimi – a civil activist.

The Judiciary of Ilam has reported that the appeal court confirmed the five years imprisonment sentences which three years of is suspended for a citizen because of “blasphemy”.

  1. Relevant officials prevented Molavi Abdolhamid from travelling to other parts of the country except Tehran.
  2. Abdolqafar Naqshbandi – a Sunni religious activist – was summoned to security agencies and interrogated.

In addition, the house of Anisa Motahar’s father – a Baha’i citizen was inspected by relevant officials and some of the personal belongings were seized.

  1. B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
  2. The Press Jury has found the editors in chief of Iran, Etemad, Arman and Qanun newspaper guilty.
  3. “Bamdad” student magazine was banned for six months by the sentence of the Board of Supervisors of Medical Sciences University of Hamedan.
  4. Relevant officials prevented the concert of Afsaneh and Nazli Jahangiri – two female singers of the Qashqaei Tribe.
  5. Relevant officials prohibited the holding of Friday prayer in the praying room of Sunnis in Kerman.
  6. Arash Razavian and Kiana Sanaei – two Baha’i students – were banned from continuing their education at the university by relevant officials.
  7. The Instagram pages of a number of well-known dance trainers in Iran were blocked by a Judicial order.
  8. The Second Branch of Tehran’s Culture and Media Court ordered the blocking of Telegram Messenger.
  9. C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
  10. Some nine individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:

The Judiciary officials have reported the execution of one individual in Tehran and one individual in Saveh because of the crime of rape. State-controlled media have reported the execution of two individuals in public in Mashhad due to rape.

On the other hand, the Judiciary officials have reported the execution of one individual in public in Bandarabbas and two individuals in Gorgan because of murder. Moreover, the Judiciary official reported the execution of one individual in Ardebil because of armed robbery and first degree murder.

Some news media have reported the execution of one individual in Babol because of the crime of murder.

On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported some executions in the prisons of Oromieh, Zahedan, Karaj, Eslamabad-e Gharb, Esfahan, Bandarabbas and Ilam; this news has not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.

  1. News media have reported the issuance of death sentences for seven individuals in Tehran because of murder, one individual in Mashhad due to first degree murder, one individual in Mashhad because of having sexual relationship out of marriage and one individual in Tehran because of harassing a woman.

In addition, the head of the Islamic Revolution Court of Tehran has reported the issuance of death sentences for eight individuals because of what has been called as membership in ISIS.

Moreover, the death sentences of one individual in Kerman and two individuals in Tehran – for the crime of murder – were confirmed in the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice of Tehran Province has reported the confirmation of the death sentence for Mohammad Salas – a Gonabadi Darwish Sect member – because of first degree murder.

  1. News media of Iran have reported the issuance of lashes sentence for one individual in Tehran because of having relationship outside of marriage.

In addition, the lashes sentence of one individual – because of harassment – was confirmed in the Supreme Court.

  1. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavourable to the extent that some of them – such Zahra Zare, Alireza Tavakoli, Mohammad Mohajer and Ahmadreza Jalali – are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment.
  2. Esmaeil Abdi, Rohollah Mardani, Arash Sadeqi, Changiz Qadam-Kheiri and Jamil Jamal went on hunger strike to protest against what has been called as unfavourable conditions for detainees and violations of their legal rights.
  3. Hadi Salehi was sent to Sanandaj Prison and Faeiz Chupani was sent to Baneh Prison. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
  4. Relevant officials prevented the AIDS Bus Plan because of what has been called “promotion of vices”.
  5. News media of Iran have reported the detention of 20 individuals in Fereydunkenar and 10 individuals in Rasht because of attending in party.
  6. News media in Iran have reported the detention of seven women who intended to go to the stadiums for watching football match.
  7. The hair of a female student was cut because of inappropriate veil by one of the officials of the primary school in Abadan.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights

Reports concerning situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example, news reveals unsatisfactory employment and legal rights of workers in a number of units such as: Technical engineering services company of the East Azarbaijan Zone, Ashkan Porcelain close factory, Osveh Iran Factory, “Saman Tile” Factory, Persian Gulf Transportation Company, Safadasht Municipality, Nozohur Paper-Making Industries, “Sadid Rikhteh Gar “ closed Factory, “Sadr Steel” Factory, Qazvin Steel, Zavareh Train Station, Traverse, Hepco Company, Esfahan Municipality, hospitals and medical centers of Gilan Medical Sciences and dredging ships of Negin Sabz Khavareh-Mianeh, some workforces of cooperative companies in Saham-eh Edalat (Justice shares) Organisation, some fired drivers of “Abadan Transportation Company, drivers of phase No.12 of the South Pars, retirees of Abadan Petrochemical, retirees of the West Alborz Coal Mine and sacked workers of Health Center in East of Ahvaz.

  1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:

Some service and waste workers of Abadan Municipality for five months, workers of “Alborz Filter” Factory for two months, around 200 workers of “Okia Car Manufacturing” Factory for four months, workers of Sisakht Municipality for four months, around 1500 workers of Safa Pipeline Factory and Saveh Profile for five months, 120 workers of Abadan Public Bus Company for three months, around 600 workers of Shafarud Jungle Company for five months, workers of “Iran Chuka” Factory for three months, workers of “Kian Kord” Textile Factory for six months, workers of  Pakan spinning and weaving Factory for three months, worker of “Industrial systems” Factory for 10 months, around 170 workers of “Hoveizeh” Municipality for two months and workers of “Benvid white cement” Factory in Naein for three months.

  1. Many workers of Entekhab Industrial Group, one hundred workers of Kowsar wagon-making in Shahreza, around 100 workers of Qazvin Steel and one forest warden in Sari were fired from their jobs.

In addition, 55 workers of “Qoncheh edible oil” Factory, 90 workers of potassium sulfate plant in Ivan and 200 workers of Varna Milk Factory were fired due the closure of these units.

Reports concerning the situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas during this month. To the extent that the air pollution of Gachsaran was seven times more than the permitted limit during some days of the month of Ordibehesht.

Moreover, 10 individuals were injured by the explosion of eight mine explosions in Saqez, Shush, Baneh, Piranshahr, Sanandaj, Sarpol-Zahab and Qasreh-Shirin.

Conclusion:

At the end of the report for the month of Ordibehesht of 1397, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, states that in the current situation, when the international atmosphere is against Iran, any violent confrontation with citizens has no other consequence except to exacerbate the situation.

Therefore, the state must placate and appease the people in any possible way.

(END)

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Reports

“The only way to save the country is to hear the voices of the protesters and respond to their long-awaited demands”

by editorfz
written by editorfz

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Esfand 1396 [20 February to 20 March 2018]:

“The only way to save the country is to hear the voices of the protesters and respond to their long-awaited demands”

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Esfand 1396 [Iranian month corresponding to 20 February to 20 March 2018].

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the problems that the Iranians were encountering in 1396 [Iranian year ending 20 March 2018], and has  said that the continuation of this situation would bring about catastrophic consequences.

This people-instituted organization said in its report that the only way to save the country is to hear the voices of the protesters and respond to their long-awaited demands.

Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.

According to the website of the Centre for the Supporters of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Esfand 1396, which has been published on 6th of Farvardin 1397 [25 March 2018], is as follows:

A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in February-March 2018

Introduction:

The year 1396 ended while Iran was, and still is, besieged by many problems.

The high rate of unemployment, wrong economic plans and cases of astronomical embezzlement have led to an ever-increasing spread of poverty in society. That is why throughout the year, almost every week we witnessed protests that predominantly had economic roots and causes

The ineffectiveness of the Judiciary and its lack of independence led to people losing hope in the possibility of any restoration of justice and, as a result, the sense of anger among them erupted, and we saw the manifestations of that anger in the the street protests during the month of Dey [December 2017].

The protest of Iranian women against the mandatory veil, which was in the community from the early days of the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and was expressed in a different way at different times, spread to the streets last year, and was labelled “the girls of the Enqelab Street”. Although these actions were conducted peacefully and in complete silence, it was confronted by arrests and false allegations such as “encouraging corruption” and these in turn and brought about more discontent.

Establishing parallel institutions that are often involved in political and factional struggles and using the Basij (mobilisation) forces for the suppression on critics, as well as the significant differences in the salaries and benefits of senior government executives with those of other employees, and most important of all, the ideological despotism of a segment of the political system, has placed the regime on a downhill slope. Obviously, the continuation of this situation will bring about some catastrophic consequences.

The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Esfand 1396, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in February-March 2018

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights

  1. A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists 
  2. During this month, more than 60 people were detained and the names of them have been specified. The names are as follows: Mirza Mohammad Mehrabi – a political activist; Mohammad Habibi – a teaches’ union activist; Banafsheh Cheraghi, Marzieh Amiri and Parisa Rafiei – three university students; Maryam Shariatmadari – a civil activist; Ali Afsoongar, Ali Salem, Peyman Chehrazi, Mehrdad Qazi and Javad Abbas Tavaloli, Mahshid Purasadi, Banafsheh Jamali, Zohreh Asadpur, Parastu Alahyari, Azadeh Behkish, Azar Gilani, Molud Hajizadeh, Atefeh Khosravi, Zahra Ahmadi, Bahar Aslani, Sudabeh Rakhsh, Shahla Entesari, Ayna Qotbiyaqubi – 18 women’s rights activists; Seyyed Hassan Shirazi – a religious activist who was criticizing the political system of Iran; Manuchehr Kokabi and Taqi Moradi – two members of the Gonabadi Darwishes Sect; Puria Nuri – a news photographer and a Gonabadi Darwishes Sect member; Alireza Farhadzadeh – a documentary filmmaker of environmental subjects; Hassan Ragh, Aref Zare, Hassan Zare, Abdolreza Kuhpayeh, Morteza Aryanejad – five environmental activists – and Seyyed Ali Seyyedzadeh – a political activist who was close to Mahmud Ahmadinejad, the former president of Iran.

Moreover, the Iranian Labour News Agency (ILNA) has reported the detention of eight workers of the National Steel Group and police have reported the detention of a citizen due to attending in street protests in the town of Falavarjan.

On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Ammar Rahmani – a university student; Mitra Badrnejadzohdi – a Baha’i citizen; Mohammad Davari, Behnam Nurmohammadi and Hosseinali Mohammadialvar – three civil activists; Seyyed Peyman Pedrud – a follower of Yari Religion; Mohammad Samiepur, Mohammad Mobasheri, Javad Amozegar, Ali Bazrgar, Seyyed Reza Hamedi, Mohammadjafar Jesmani, Esmaeil Fakuri and Yazdan Mohammad Beigi – nine political activists – and Mohammadreza Naseriazad who was famous as Reza Pishru – a rapper. In addition, some news resources have reported the detention of some citizens from the west of Iran such cities as Maku, Marivan, Bukan, Naqadeh, Piranshahr and Ilam due to cooperating with Kurdish parties which were opposed to the government, as well as some citizens of Khuzestan Province.

It should be noted that, some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.

  1. Osman Esmaeili – a labour activist – was detained and has been sent to prison to spend two months in jail. Shapur Rashnu – a political activist from Khuzestan – He was already sentenced to imprisonment in exile on charges of propaganda against the regime and had been detained in Ahvaz’s intelligence office for some time. Finally; he was subsequently exiled to Adel Abad Prison in Shiraz for execution of his sentence.
  2. Gholamhossein Karbaschi – a political activist (and former mayor of Tehran in 1990s) – was sentenced to one year in jail; Fataneh Nabilzadeh, Saqi Fadaei, Dori Amri, Mey Kholusi [name as given in the original] and Shayan Tafzili – five Baha’i citizens – each of them were sentenced to one year in prison; Sadeq Zibakalam – a university professor and political analyst – was sentenced to 18 months in jail and two years ban from political and social activities; Mohammadali Taheri – the founder of Erfan-e Halqeh [Mystic Ring] who is currently in prison – was sentenced to five years in jail again; Leila Hosseinzadeh – a university student activist – was sentenced to six years imprisonment and two years ban from leaving the country; Sina Rabiei – a university student – was sentenced to one year in jail and two years ban from leaving the country; Mohsen Haqshenas – a university student – was sentenced to one year in jail and two years ban from leaving the country; Mohammad Mahdavifar – a civil activist who is currently in prison – was sentenced to two years imprisonment and a fine of 40 million IRR; Matin Khaledi and Amin Zendehdel – two citizens from Orumieh – each of them were sentenced to 72 months of imprisonment, 60 months of which would be carried out; Naser Hassani and Safar Ordukhani – two citizens from Ormieh – each of them were sentenced to 12 months in jail and Monireh Soltanzadeh – a citizen from Orumieh – was sentenced to six months in jail; Ali Qadiri – a citizen from Tabriz – was sentenced to three months in jail which is suspended for one year and six months in jail; Mehdi Kukhian – a civil activist and manager of a Telegram Channel – was sentenced to 18 months in jail; Alam Qanbarzehi – a citizen from Sistan va Baluchestan Province – was sentenced to five years in jail, and Reza Achrash – a citizen from Susangerd – was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment.

Moreover, the prosecutor of Tehran has reported the issuance of two years imprisonment sentence for one of the women who was against compulsory veil in Tehran and the deputy of prosecutor of Mashhad has reported the issuance of imprisonment sentences against 11 people because of protest actions against the political system as well as the destruction of public property and mosques.

On the other hand, the appeal court has confirmed the sentences of Akbar Delbari – a member of the Gonabadi Darwishes Sect – who was sentenced to nine months in jail; Maryam Delbari – a Gonabadi Darwishes Sect member – was sentenced to 18 months in jail and two years exile to Bushehr City and compulsory service in the women seminary in the mentioned city.

Siamak Mirzaei – an imprisoned citizen – was sentenced to three years imprisonment and one year of compulsory stay in Tabas after the reduction of his original sentence; Nazmin Heidari – a jailed citizen – was sentenced to 15 years in jail after the reduction of his original sentence and Sakhi Rigi – a jailed citizen – was sentenced to 10 years in prison after the reduction of his original sentence.

  1. Relevant officials have reported the murdering of Mohammad Raji – a Gonabadi Darwishes Sect member who was detained during the incidents in Pasdaran Street [northern Tehran] – and news media have reported the death of Taleb Bastami – a university student – in prison, at the time of his arrest.
  2. Rahim Basak, Qorban Alipur, Keramat Pam and Esmaeil Bakhshi – four labour activists –were temporarily released on bail until their next hearing.
  3. Relevant officials prevented Maryam Mombeini – the wife of Kavus Seyyedemami who died in prison during the month of Bahman [Feb 2018] – from leaving the country.
  4. Hassan Alekasir, Amir Alekasir, Majid Amiri – three labour activists; Akhtar Nemati, Naeim Nemati, Rashid Baluch and Omran Jama’at – four citizens from Chabahar – were summoned to the Ministry of Intelligence and Abdolsattar Hosseinbar – a religious and cyber activist – was summoned to the police department.
  5. The agents of a security institution prevented Seyyed Mohammad Khatami from attending in the anniversary ceremony of the National Library opening.
  6. B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
  7. The officials of the Islamic Azad University prevented Reza Davariardakani, Sadeq Zibakalam and Gudarz Eftekharjahromi from continuing to teach in this university.
  8. News media of Iran have reported the education ban on four nursing students from Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences for one year and the secretary of the trade union central council at that university for two years.
  9. Relevant officials have prevented Vesal Heravi – a Baha’i citizen – from continuing education at the university.
  10. Relevant officials prevented the concerts of Alireza Qorbani in Sari and Torqabeh cities, Farzad Farzin in Sabzevar and Shahrekord cities, “Vaziri Band” in Torqabeh of Mashhad and Mohammad Motamedi in Esfahan.
  11. Press jury have found the editor in chief of “Merhnameh” Journal guilty.
  12. According to Faraj Alipur – a singer and Lori Kamanche [traditional instrument] player – officials have been preventing the broadcast of the artist’s audio and video in IRIB for five years until now.
  13. Relevant officials prevented the entering of Ehsan Babamir to the student dormitory because of the students’ protests at the University of Art.
  14. Security forces and police prevented the gathering of International Women’s Day in Tehran.
  15. Police have reported the blocking of 200 Telegram channels on a daily basis.
  16. C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
  17. Some two individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Available details are as follows:

News media of Iran have reported the execution of two individuals in Gachsaran in public due to robbery and murder.

On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported some executions in the prisons of Khoy, Ilam, Hamedan and Orumieh; this news has not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.

  1. News media in Iran have reported the issuance of death sentences for Mohammad Salas – a Gonabadi Darwishes Sect member – due to murder; one individual in Fars Province because of murder; one individual in Tabriz because of murder; one individual in Tehran due to armed robbery and four individuals in Tehran because of murder; one individual in Shiraz due to armed robbery and two individuals in Khorramabad due to the crime of murder.

In addition, the death sentences of four individuals in Tehran due to murder and one individual in Karaj because of murder were confirmed in the Supreme Court.

  1. News media in Iran have reported the execution of lashes sentence against one individual in public in Sirjan because of a gang fight in a hospital.
  2. News media in Iran have reported the issuance of lashes sentences in Tehran Province due to sexual relationship outside marriage.

Moreover, the lashes sentences for four individuals in Tehran Province because of robbery and kidnapping were confirmed in the appeal court.

  1. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavourable to the extent that some of them – such as Hamidreza Amini, Hamzeh Darwish and Alireza Golipur – are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment. In addition, the officials of the prison prevented Shokufeh Yadollahi – a prisoner Darwish – from being dispatched to a medical center outside the prison because of the refusal of the prisoner to wear a prisoner’s uniform and handcuffs while being dispatched to the medical center.
  2. Siamak Mirzaei, Alireza Tavakoli, Alireza Golipur, Reza Aqajani, Mokhtar Asadi and Abdolfattah Soltani went on hunger strike in protest at what they claim to be undesirable conditions for prisoners and the violations of their legal rights.
  3. Mostafa Safari, Hadi Dehnavi, Kasra Nuri, Faramarz Mangari, Salehedin Moradi, Reza Entesari, Mohammad Karimaei, Kianush Abbaszadeh, Mostafa Abdi and Mohammad Sharifimoqadam – 10 Gonabadi Darwishes Sect members who were detained after the incidents of Pasdaran Street and were kept in Fashapuyeh Prison – were transferred to the Ward No.209 of Evin Prison. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and is contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
  4. The Basij Organisation has reported the detention of 50 individuals in Lavasan, deputy of the prosecutor of Mashhad has reported the detention of 60 individuals in Mashhad and police have reported the detention of 10 individuals in Abadan because of attending parties.
  5. The cemetery of Baha’i citizens in Kerman was sealed by a judicial authority because of what is called health and environmental issues.
  6. Officials prevented the entry of women to the Azadi stadium to watch a football match and took them away from the stadium under guard.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights

Reports concerning situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example, news reveals unsatisfactory employment and legal rights of workers in a number of units such as: “Iran Counter Making” Factory, “Iran Metallurgy Powder” Factory, Qaeimshahr Textile Factory No.1, Yasuj Municipality, Marivan Municipality, Travers Contract Company, Hepco Company, Tabriz Ball Bearings Factory, Simgu Valve Factory, Oromieh Steel Factory, Ilam Gas Refinery, Repairs of terminals and petrochemical tanks of Mahshahr and Pasargad Stone Mill, teachers from different cities, Technical and Electrical Staff of Raja Company, Ahab Company and Cooperative companies of Sahameh Edalat, Power substations operators across the country and retires of Kiyan Tire Factory.

On the other hand, many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:

Some 70 workers of Loshan Municipality for four months, some workers of Nilufar Tile and Ceramic Factory for four months, 60 workers of “Pars Pamchal” for seven months, 200 workers of “Iran Poplin Raht” for three months, workers of Persian Gulf International Shipping Company for two months, some workers of Alvand Municipality for three months, workers of “Pars Milang” Factory for four months, workers of “Qazvin Steel” and “Arman Shafaq” for three months, workers of “Forqani Textile Group” for four months, some contract workers of Ahvaz Telecommunication Company for five months and some workers of Borujerd Road Constructing Project for six months.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment

  1. One child was killed due to mine explosion in Shush City. In addition, nine individuals were injured in Dehloran, Saqez, Qasreh Shirin, Baneh and Shush due to five mine explosions.
  2. Two students were wounded because of the explosion of war remnants in a high school in Kuhdasht.

Conclusion:

At the end of the report for the month of Esfand of 1396, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, declares that the only way to save the country is to hear the voices of the protesters and respond to their long-awaited demands, otherwise the spring of 1397 that has just stgarted is not going to be “joyful”.

End.

 

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Reports

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights: Avoid expressing anarchy-inspiring remarks

by adminl
written by adminl

Tuesday- 6th of Tir 1396- 27 June 2017

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Khordad 1396 [Iranian month corresponding to 22 May to 21 June 2017]
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to some words that can provide justification for law-evading actions in the society and asked senior officials of Iran to avoid expressing anarchy-inspiring remarks.

This people-instituted organization has complained about the use of some words and phrases such as “firing at will.”
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights criticizes the illegal behaviors in other parts of its report; and has referred to the condition of Zahra Rahnavard, Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karrubi who have been under house arrest for several years without any trial and notification of charges and only on the instructions of the Leader.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organization has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.
According to the website of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Khordad 1396, which has been published on 6th of Tir 1396 [27 June 2017], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in May-June 2017

Introduction:
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran has delegated a great deal of authority to the Supreme Leader in Article 110. Granting such broad powers to someone who is not elected directly by the people and whose position is for life has undermined democracy. However, it should be noted that the Leader is still acting against the constitution despite having such extensive powers. Some examples of these behaviors include the house arrest of Zahra Rahnavard, Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi. They have been under house arrest for five years without any trial and notification of charges and only on the instructions of the Leader.
Unfortunately, the Leader is not only disregarding the law himself, but he has also recommended this behavior to his followers. The Leader called his followers “fire at will” last month, and this has given the impression that he is implicitly issued a permit for his supporters to disregard and violate laws. The result of such order was to create turmoil and chaos because each person can act on his own belief and violate the law by acting arbitrarily. An example of such action is disturbing the peaceful gatherings of citizens, acid attacks to deal with an inappropriate dress code and most importantly, the killings of political dissidents – an affair which has been described in the Iranian judicial literature as “chain killings”.
This is while such unlawful and criminal actions were carried out in the past with the lack of judicial process and ignoring the specific rules of justice and some – by relying on the support of the highest officials in the country – allowed themselves to violate the rights of citizens and ignore the laws. Currently, making remarks such as “firing at will” even if it leads to legal action against them, creates the grounds and pretexts for defending the perpetrators, who in turn try to justify their actions and escape from the hands of justice, while declaring their obedience to the commands of the Leader.,
The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Khordad 1396, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in May-June 2017

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights
A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 29 people were detained and the names of them have been specified, who were: Asal Esmaeilzadeh – a media activist; Mohammad Mahdavifar – an artist and poet; Azadeh Bokaei – a journalist; Emad Karimi – a political and university activist; Sepehr Moradian – a political activist; Nushin Salekian and Farideh Abdi – two Baha’i citizens; Javad Giahshenas – a member of Democratic Party [Hezbe Mardomsalari]; Reza Golestani – a member of Labour Party – and Danial Estakhr – a lawyer.
In addition, police have reported the detention of two managers of a Telegram channel in Golestan Province and a Judiciary official has reported the detention of two managers of a Telegram channel in Ardebil. On the other hand, police have reported the detention of four individuals in Abadan due to the release of a film on how policemen behave in this city in cyberspace, and the state-controlled media have reported of the detention of seven individuals in Kermanshah Province because of what has been called the “production and dissemination of anti-religious and anti-system content”.
The prosecutor of Abadan has reported the detention of one individual due to what has been described as “invitation to rally through the use of virtual networks”, and the prosecutor of Alborz Province has reported the detention of two individuals on charges of communicating with the People’s Mujahedin of Iran [opposition group].
On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Mehdi Zargani – a citizen from Ahvaz – and some other residents because of terrorist acts in the building of the Majlis and Ayatollah Khomeini’s tomb, which killed a number of citizens.
It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.
Moreover, some news sources have reported the detention of Alim Guri – a university student – during the last days of the month Ordibehest.
2. Abdolreza Davari – a media activist – was detained and sent to prison to serve three years in jail. in addition, 12 Baha’i citizens were detained and sent to jail with different amounts of imprisonment terms such as – Hana Aqiqian to one year and nine months, Sudabeh Mehdinejad to one year and nine months, Behnam Hassani to one year and six months, Parisa Shahidi to one year and nine months, Mitra Nuri to one year and six months, Maryam Dehqanyazdeli to one year and six month, Mojdeh Zohuri to one year and nine months, Farahnaz Tabianian to one year and nine months, Hushmand Dehqanyazdeli to one year and six months, Sheida Qodosi for her imprisonment, Puneh Sanaei for one year and nine months and Nazi Tahqiqi to one year and six months.
On the other hand, another one-year imprisonment sentence of Navid Khanjani – a Baha’i citizen who is currently in prison – was carried out after the end of his last term of imprisonment.
3. Alimohammad Jahangiri, a civil activist, was sentenced to four years in jail in Yazd; Shapur Rashnu – a national-religious activist – was sentenced to one year in jail in Shiraz Prison; Ezatollah Jafari, a civil activist, was sentenced to one year in prison in Kerman; Ashraf Rahimkhani, a civil activist, was sentenced to one year imprisonment; Zeynab Keshvari – a women’s rights activist – was sentenced to three months in jail; Ali Nejati – a labour activist – was sentenced to six months imprisonment; Seyyed Saeid Hashemiebrahimi and Mohammadreza Sediqi – two members of the Mystic Ring sect [Erfaneh Halqeh] – each were sentenced to seven years in prison which are suspended for five years. They were also sentenced to pay fines. Moreover, some news sources have reported the imprisonment sentence for Isa Damani (Hadad), Mojahed Zargani and Hossein (Naji) Heidari – three citiz ens from Ahvaz. Hossein Daneshmand – who is currently serving a term in prison – was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment in the appeal court. The sentence of six months imprisonment of Zartosht (Esmaeil) Ahmadiragheb was changed to a fine of 2,000,000 Toman [around 600 dollars] by the appeal court.
4. Amin Khaki – a Christian citizen; Hana Khorasan – a cultural activist; Vahed Seyyedeh – a labor activist – were summoned to the Ministry of Intelligence.

B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. The entry of seven parliamentary journalists to the Majlis building for preparing reports was prevented.
2. Relevant officials sealed the praying room of Sunni residents in Yaft Abad Neighbourhood in Tehran.
3. Relevant officials prevented the holding of educational programme performances of Hossein Behruzikia – a musician – in Shiraz and Omid Hajili’s concert in Abadan.
4. Relevant officials prevented the speech of Ali Ayar in Ilam.
5. Relevant officials prevented the further education of Farzad Safaei and Vafa Hoveidaei – two Baha’i citizens.
6. Press Jury found the editor in chief of “Mehrnameh” Monthly guilty.
7. The Judiciary prevented the publication and distribution of the Beirami Weekly following the printing the image of Seyyed Mohammad Khatami – the former president of Iran.
8. Mashhad intelligence office has seized the book “Writing and Reading of Kurmanji Kurdish” due to its use of Latin alphabets.
C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. Some five individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:
Hojatollah Tadru was executed in Kermanshah and “A-Kh” was executed in Mashhad. State-controlled media have said their crime was murder.
Some news sources in Iran have reported the execution of one individual in Mashhad and one individual at the central prison of Karaj because of murder.
News media have reported the execution of one individual in Birjand due to the crime of rape.
On the other hand, some unofficial new websites have reported the executions in the prisons of Khorramabad, Bushehr, Zanjan, Ardebil, Orumieh, Kermanshah, Zahedan, Maragheh, and Minab. This news has not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. Some news sources have reported the issuance of death sentences against “Karim”, “Mersad”, “Arash” and “Sh-N” and four other individuals in Tehran Province due to the crime of murder; two individuals in Rudbar because of murder and one individual in Golestan Province in charge with armed robbery.
In addition, the death sentences of “Mostafa” and two individuals in Tehran Province and one individual in Marvdasht – because of murder – were confirmed by the Supreme Court. The death sentences of two individuals due to an armed robbery in Tehran were confirmed in the Supreme Court.
3. Some news sources have reported the issuance of hand amputation sentence against “Taqi” and “Parviz” because of robbery. Also, news media in Iran have reported the issuance of finger amputation sentence against “Ramin” because he had caused the severance of someone’s finger.
4. The prosecutor of Qazvin has reported the execution of lashes sentences for 20 individuals for the offense of not observing the Ramadan fasting rule in public [Eating, smoking, and drinking in public is illegal in Islamic countries]. In addition, some news sources have reported the issuance of lashes sentences for “Amir” in Tehran Province due to robbery, “Hamid” and two individuals in Tehran Province because of liaison; one individual in Tehran Province due to kidnapping and harassment, one individual in Alborz Province because of beating and insult, one individual in Tehran Province because of sexual harassment.
5. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavorable to the extent that some of them – such as Abdullah Shariati, Changiz Qadamkheiri, Ayub Asadi and Alireza Golipur are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment.
6. Vahid Sayadinasiri was transferred to Rajaei Shahr Prison in Karaj; Majid Asadi, Payam Shakiba, and Mohammad Banazadeh Amirkhizi were transferred to Rajaei Shahr Prison. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
7. Siamak Mirzaei, Nima Keshvari, Saeid Naqdi, Sobhan Jafaritash, Javad Jamshidi, Seyyed Mojtaba Baqeri, Ali Ahmadnia, Habib Sasanian, Mostafa Salimi and Adnan Hosseini who were currently in the prison went on hunger strike because of protest against the violation of the legal rights of prisoners.
8. According to a sentence, Mohsen Foruzan – a football player – was banned for playing for three months because of the activities of his wife on social media.
9. The Judiciary officials have reported the detention of 15 individuals in Gorgan because of attending a party. Moreover, The Revolution Guards Corps (Sepah) has reported the detention of 90 girls and boys on a leisure tour in Sepidan.
10. Some news sources have reported the detention of a girl who used boys’ clothes to enter the Azadi Sports Stadium. Also, police have reported the detention of one individual because of what has been called as “management of a social media channel with non-conformist” content.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example, news reveals unsatisfactory employment and legal rights of workers in a number of units such as: Haft Tapeh Sugarcane Factory, Azarab Factory, Central Alborz Coal Mine, phase No.13 of Kangan Project, Southern Pabadan Mine, Gostaresh Tose-eh Sanat Azarbaijan Factory, Qu Edible Oil Factor, (Tabas) Cement Factory and Kansaram Factory, Shahab Meybud Granule Factory, workers of Tehran Metro Operations Company, motorists of Raja Railways and teachers of the Literacy Movement.
1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:
Safa Pipe for four months, Folut Glass Factory for six months, some workers of Ahwaz Municipality for three months, some workers of Neyriz Municipality for two months, some workers of Abadan Municipality for five months, some drivers of Nurabad Municipality for four months, workers of Borujerd Municipality for five months, workers of “Pars Food Making” Factory for two months, around 250 workers of “Gonbad” Ajormashini for five months, workers of “Riz Moj” (Zarrin Moj) for four months, 150 workers of Iran Steel (Ahwaz) for two months, workers of “Iran Switch” Factory for five months, workers of Tarzeh Coal Mine for two months, workers of Gilan Refining Oil “Varian” for four months and 108 workers of Dorud Steel Factory for four months.
2. Some 229 workers of Charmshir Dam Project and six workers of Gilan Refining Oil “Varian” were sacked from their jobs.
In addition, 140 workers of Ardakan Wood and Metal Factory were fired by the closure of this factory.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
Reports concerning situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavorable conditions in these areas during this month.
1. The level of air pollution reached around 33 times more than the permitted level in Khorramshahr and 22 times more in Abadan during some days of the month Khordad.
2. Historical monuments which were retained from the period of Seljuk Dyasty, were destroyed in Bahmaei City.
3. Some six individuals were injured due to six mine explosions in Mehran, Dehloran, Piranshahr, and Marivan.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Khordad of 1396, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has referred to some words and statements which can lend justification for illegal and law-evading actions in the society and asked senior officials of Iran to avoid expressing anarchy-inspiring remarks.

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Reports

The elected president should start monitoring the performance of the Ministry of Intelligence

by adminl
written by adminl

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Ordebehesht 1396 [21 April to 21 May 2017].

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the holding of 12th Presidential Election of Iran and demanded from Hassan Rouhani to fulfil the programmes he promised, by relying on the votes of the public and those Majlis representatives whose ideas and ways of thinking are close to his own.
This people-instituted organization, referring to the need for the president to monitor and supervise the Ministry of Intelligence, as an institution which operates under the authority of government, has demanded from the elected president to exercise greater scrutiny over the performance of that Ministry in the future.
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has pointed to the existence of parallel and illegal institutions working in the area of security and intelligence, and has asked Hassan Rouhani to resist against their violations and offenses, and introduce these institutions to the people, in accordance with his legal authorities and obligations.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organization has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political JH rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.

According to the website of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Ordibehesht 1396, which has been published on 1st of Khordad 1396 [22 May 2017], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in April-May 2017

Introduction:
The 12th presidential elections were held in Iran with all its controversies and side issues, and Hassan Rouhani was duly elected for a second term in office by winning 57 percent of the votes. In view of the fact that Rouhani won more votes than in the previous election before the start of his first term, and given that in the current Parliament, the number of representatives close to the president’s thinking is higher than in the previous Majlis; therefore, Hassan Rouhani should be able to fulfil his duties and the programmes and policies he promised, by relying on the public’s vote and mandate, and also to the representatives of the Majlis. On top of all the programmes of the President stands the task of monitoring all centers and organizations, which, in accordance with the law, are operating under the authority of the head of the Executive Power. One of these centers is the Ministry of Intelligence. The Intelligence Minister is appointed by the president and joins the cabinet formally after receiving the endorsement of the Majlis. Therefore, any illegal activity by the officials in the Ministry of Intelligence will be recorded in the overall performance record of the president. Therefore, it is absolutely essential for the president to control and scrutinize this ministry more stringently and, and this needs to be a key part of the president’s agenda.
On the other hand, everyone knows well about the existence of parallel and illegal institutions operating in the area of security, and their illegal activities, including arresting and persecuting civil and political activists. It is evident that the highest person in charge of the judiciary is aware of it too. The introduction of these institutions to the public, and putting up resistance against their illegal conducts are among the president’s key duties under the Constitution.
The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Ordibehesht 1396, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in April-May 2017

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights
A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 64 people were detained and the names and details given for them, are: Rahmatollah Jamshidi Larijani who is famous as Iraj Jamshidi – a journalist; Valeh Zamani – a labour activist; Adib Haqpajuh, Bahador Kamju, Manuchehr Bareqi, Hushang Mokhtari, Bijan Eslami, Ali Anvari and Fahimeh Eshaqi – seven Baha’i citizens.
Moreover, the chief justice of Ilam Province has reported the detention of the presenter at the ceremonies marking the opening of Hassan Rouhani’s electoral campaign HQ. Moreover, the chief justice of Esfahan Province has reported the detention of a cyberspace activist and the local director general of Intelligence [Ministry] in Hormozgan Province has reported the detention of 30 individuals due to the charge of “antireligious activities in cyberspace”.
On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Saeid Zargani, Ali Zargani, Mehdi Zargani, Hossein Moqtaei (Zargani), Etedal Moqtaei (Zargani), Meysam Khosraji, Reza Zavidat and Hamud Dabi – eight citizens from Ahwaz and Shush; Ramezan Svari, Rasul Savari, Saeid Savari, Abdolkarim Kabi, Bashir Savari, Ahmad Chaldavi, Saeid Savari, Hassan Kabi, Ali Kabi and Saheb Kabi – 10 citizens from Shushtar; Reza Malek – a civil activist; Salahedin Kavani, Mansur Mohammadpur, Mohsen Bardehzard and Ribvar Mohammadi – four citizens from the town of Bukan.
2. Mohsen Omrani – a teacher union activist – was detained and sent to prison in order to serve a one year term in jail.
3. Isa Saharkhiz – a [pro-reform] journalist – has been sentenced to one year in jail once more; Rahim Sharhani – a citizen from Ahvaz – was sentenced to one year in prison and Salman (Yunes) Sorkhi – another citizen from Ahvaz – was sentenced to six months in prison; Khashayar Tafazoli, Shayan Tafazoli and Sina Aqdaszadeh – three Baha’i citizens – were sentenced to one year in jail each; Mohammad Mohajer, Alireza Tavakoli and Mohammad Mehdi Zamanzadeh – three Telegram activists who are currently serving a detention – were each sentenced to 12 years imprisonment; Zartosht (Esmaeil) Ahmadi Raqeb – a civil activist – was sentenced to nine months in jail; Arash Shoa Sharq – a reporter – was sentenced to lashes and Ali Peyravinejad (Savari) and Adnan Bayanat Banisakini – two citizens from Ahvaz – were sentenced to pay a fine of 10,000,000 Iranian Rials (IRR) for each. In addition, Aziz Qasemzadeh – a teacher union activist – was sentenced to exile from Anzali to Rudbar by the administrative violations board.
Osman Esmaeili – a labor activist – has been sentenced to two months in jail after the Appeal Court reduced the original sentence issued by the preliminary court.
4. Abdul Sattar Hosseibar – a Sunni religious activist – and Sheis Amani – a labor activist – were summoned to the Ministry of Intelligence and were interrogated. Moreover, Fares Guelian – a labor activist – was summoned to the police department.
B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. The relevant officials prevented Mohammad Motamedi – a singer – from holding a concert in Birjand [northeast Iran].
2. Judiciary officials have prevented a number of personalities from delivering planned speeches in different parts of the country. These included: Gholamhossein Karbaschi – secretary general of the Executives of Construction Party (Hezb-e Kargozaran-e Sazandegi) – in Shiraz and Fasa; Faeizeh Hashemi – a political activist [and daughter of late Ayatollah Hashemi Rafsanjani] – in Gachsaran; Mahmud Beheshti Langarudi – a teacher union activist – in Qazvin, and [reformist journalist and activist] Ali Shakurirad in Bandar Anzali. Also, a Judiciary official prevented the holding of a rally by the supporters of Hassan Rouhani [no location was given].
Moreover, some individuals prevented Gholamhossein Karbaschi from attending Hassan Rouhani’s electoral campaign in Qazvin, while the police force did nothing to intervene.
3. The prosecutor of Tehran has reported that Seyyed Mohammad Khatami – former president of Iran – is still banned from appearing on broadcast media.
4. Relevant officials prevented Mostafa Daneshju – the lawyer of Gonabadi Darwishes Sect who has spent some time in jail – from continuing his education at the university. In addition, according to Mohammad Ali Tavusi – a law expert – he was fired from the Cultural Heritage Organisation because of his religious faith, which follows the sect of Darwishes
5. The Ministry of Intelligence prevented the holding of the meeting of the Central Council of the National Front of Iran (Shora-ye Markazi-e Jebheye Melli-e Iran).
6. Relevant officials prevented the attendance of some Sunni religious activists such as Hassan Amini, Hossein Gorgij and Jalal Jalalizadeh who wanted to participate in the graduation ceremony of Dar ol Olum Seminary students in Zahedan.
7. The Press Jury has found the editor in chief of Parsineh News Website guilty.

C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. Some five individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:
News media have reported the execution of three individuals in Mashhad for the crime of murder.
“H-R” was executed in public in Babol. Judiciary officials have reported the convict had been found guilty of the crime of murder.
News media sources have reported the execution of one individual in Birjand because of the crime of rape.
On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported executions in the prisons of Bandarabbas, Rajaei Shahr, Hamedan, and Khoramabad. These reports have not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. News media sources have reported the issuance of death sentences for two individuals in Rudbar due to murder. In addition, death sentences were also issued against “Arash”, “Mohammadreza” and “Siavash” in Tehran Province because of the crime of murder.
Moreover, the death sentence of Mohsen – due to the crime of murder – was confirmed in the Supreme Court.
3. News media sources have reported the issuance of a hand amputation sentence against “Amir” because of the crime of robbery.
4. News media sources have reported the issuance of lashes sentences for “Kurosh” because of robbery in Tehran; “M-T” because of the crime of insult and slander in Mazandaran; a man and a woman in Tehran due to an illicit sexual relationship outside marriage and three individuals in Tehran due to sexual offenses.
5. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unsatisfactory to the extent that some of them – such as Nushindokht Mirabdolbaqi, Sotudeh Fazeli, Alireza Golipur, Behnam Musivand, Omar Farhang, Fatemeh Masani, Majid Asadi and Ehsan Mazandarani – are sick but no serious action has been taken to provide them with medical treatment.
6. Yusef (Mostafa) Kakehmami was transferred to the central prison of Tabriz. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
7. Qasem Absteh, Athena Daeimi, Reza Samiei Monfared, Hengameh Shahidi and Esmaeil Abdi, Seyyed Hassan Hosseini, Ali Jahangiri and Hossein Yahyaei have gone on hunger strike in order to voice their protest against the violation of the legal rights of prisoners.
8. Judiciary officials have reported the detention of 60 individuals in Tustasktan in Gorgan, 55 individuals in Kerman, 44 individuals in Qom, 25 individuals in Ahvaz, 63 individuals in Mashhad and 36 individuals in Abadan due to attending parties.
9. News media sources have reported that a number of school pupils have been dispatched to shooting ranges which are used specifically for military training. It should be noted that the use of children in military affairs is a contravention of Iran’s international obligations, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
10. Hossein Mehrandish, a lawyer, has been arrested and detained.
11. The head of the Election HQ has reported the disqualification of 14,500 people who had sought to stand as candidates in the fifth elections for the local councils in towns and villages. Moreover, news sources have reported the disqualification of 28 individuals out of a total of 30 who belonged to the Parsanha [Sect] and had sought to stand in the local council’s election for towns and villages.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning the situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavorable conditions in these areas. For example, news reports reveal unsatisfactory employment, salaries and legal rights for workers in a number of units such as: Raja contract workers, passenger terminal in Zahedan, petrol stations of the country, the Shomal Haffari [Excavation] Company, Persian Gulf Transportation Company, the phase No. 13 of South Pars in Kangan, the Persian Gulf Star Refinery, “Tulipers” Factory, “Alborz Packaging” Factory, Mashinsazi Cooperation in Arak, retired workers of “Haft Tapeh Sugar Cane” Factory and “Rangin Nakh Semnan” Factory, and 75 fired workers of Takestan Municipality, shareholder workers of “Chromic Mine of Esfandaqeh”, 33 sacked workers of “Arya Steel” Factory and sacked workers of Ashkan Chini and some of the fired workers of Samenolhojaj Financial and Credit Institute, operators of high voltage electricity posts and employees of hospitals and Medical Centers of Medical Sciences in Gilan.
1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not been paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:
More than 100 workers of Qu Edible Oil for more than two months, workers of rural water department of Semnan for five months, the workers of Borujerd Municipality for five months, 45 workers of “Almas Steel” Factory in Takestan for four months, 60 workers of Iran Switch for five months, Hormoz Bahrgostar Ship Making Cooperation for two months, workers of “Qazvin Glass” for four months, workers of “Azarab” Factory for three months, 100 workers of Ahvaz Municipality for two months and 30 workers of Tabas Municipality for two months until the preparation date of this report.
2. Some 30 workers “Rizmoj” Factory (Zarrin Moj) and 70 workers of Haft Tapeh Agro-Industrial Complex were fired from their jobs.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
Reports concerning the situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavorable conditions in these areas during the past month.
1. The density of dust particles in the air reached to 10 times more than the permitted levels in the city of Yazd and the density of micro-dust particles in Bushehr and Gonaveh reached to six times more than the permitted level. The air pollution reached to 10 times more than the permitted level in Ahvaz and Shadegan and the density of dust reached to eight times more than the acceptable standards in the city of Khorramshahr.
2. One individual was killed and another was injured due to a land mine explosion in Sarepolzahab. In addition, five individuals were injured in Qasr-e Shirin, Saqez, Oshnavieh, and Talaeiyeh due to five landmine explosions.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Ordibehesht of 1396, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has emphasized that Iranian citizens, both those who did and those who did not vote in the election, must comply with the current laws. At the same time, it also expects the government institutions to respect the law as well and not to engage in any activity outside the scope of their legal powers, particularly in relation to the sensitive security issues.

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Reports

The shaky foundations of democracy in Iran have become weaker because of consultative supervision

by adminl
written by adminl

Saturday, 2 of Ordibehest, 22 Apr 2017

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Farvardin 1396 [Iranian month corresponding to 21 March to 20 Apr 2017].
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the holding of 12th Presidential Election of Iran in the month of Ordibehest [21 April to 21 May] and the procedures for vetting the presidential candidates and has announced that the shaky foundations of democracy in Iran have become weaker because of consultative supervision [by the Guardian Council].

This people-instituted organization has said the consultative supervision and the extension of the powers of the Guardian Council is contrary to the explicit provisions of the Constitution.
Therefore, The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights considered the abolition of the consultative supervision of the Guardian Council as a way for creating a sense of confidence and assurance about the integrity of the election.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.
According to the website of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said centre for the month of Farvardin 1396, which has been published on 2nd of Ordibehesht 1396 [22 Apr 2017], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in Mar-April 2017

Introduction:
During the last days of the month of Ordibehesht 1396, the Iranian people will vote at their 12th presidential election.
In accordance with Article 114 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the president is elected for four years and with a direct vote of the people. According to Article 99 of the Constitution, the Guardian Council is responsible for monitoring and scrutinizing the election. This monitoring, however, is limited to issues such as the timing and method of holding the elections, and also to ascertaining the validity of the votes that the electorate have cast. For this reason, the first three presidents in the Islamic Republic were elected directly by the people in accordance with the constitution, and the supervision of the Guardian Council was solely limited to the correct implementation of the election process.
However, with the approval of the law on “the supervision of the Guardian Council over the presidential election” and subsequently with the extension of the powers of the Guardian Council, the supervision of this council changed from “executive supervision” to “consultative supervision”, and the right to determine the competence and eligibility of the candidates seeking to stand in the presidential election, was also delegated to that council. Therefore, the presidential election was turned into a two stage process rather than one stage which was characterized by the “direct votes of the people”. That meant from then on, the people could only vote for those candidates who had been “selected” in advance by the Guardian Council.
The approval of this law and the extension of the power of the Guardian Council is contrary to the explicit spirit of the constitution but because, based on Article 94 of the Constitution, it is the discretion of the Guardian Council to determine whether laws are in contradiction of the constitution or not, in a situation resembling a “vicious circle”, the said council did not consider the proposals on the extension of its power to be against the constitution. Furthermore, because the Guardian Council is the legal entity to which complaints and objections against that Council’s actions should be referred, naturally the shaky foundations of democracy in Iran have become weaker. This was to such an extent that some of the citizens lose the opportunity to participate in the electoral process and some do not participate in the election in order to voice their protest against the consultative supervision of the Guardian Council. Therefore, the people whose names come out of the ballot box cannot be definitely considered as a true reflection of the real preferences and opinions of the community.
The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Farvardin 1396, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in Mar-April 2017

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights

A) Situation of Non-conformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 32 people were detained and the names of them have been specified, who were: Mohammadreza Ahangar – a labour activist; Fazlorahman Kuhi – a Sunni religious activist; Ehsan Eshtiaq, Enayat Naeimi, Farzad Homayuni, Sorush Pezeshki, Sohrab Naqipur, Mahnaz Jan Nesar, Nasim Qanavatian, Maral Rasti, Farhad Amri, Arash Rasekhi, Mehrollah Afshar and Omid Afaqi – 12 Baha’i citizens.
In addition, the prosecutor of Kermanshah has reported the detention of six labour activists in this city.
On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Hamzeh Chaldavi, Abdolnaser Abiat, Hashem Heidari, Sadeq Heidari, Jafar Heidari, Khaled Chayan (Sharifi), Khalil Ghafeli, Mostafa Savari, Kazem Sorkhi, Amir Sorkhi – 10 citizens from Khuzestan; Hiva Kiaei and Mehdi Salahi – two Telegram activists.
It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.
2. The new ten-years imprisonment sentence of Narges Mohammadi – vice president of The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights – was executed exactly after finishing of her past imprisonment on 25 Esfand 1395 (15 Mar 2017).
3. Athena Daeimi – a civil activist who is currently serving a sentence in prison – was sentenced to one year in jail once more; Ensieh Daeimi and Hanieh Daeimi – two citizens – were sentenced to three months and one day of suspended imprisonment; Soheila Karegar – a citizen from Qazvin – was sentenced to five years in jail; Amanollah Baluchi and Hafez Abdolrahimkuhi – two Sunni religious activists – were sentenced to one year in jail. Moreover, the five years’ imprisonment sentence of Ebrahim Firuzi – a newly converted Christian – was confirmed in the appeal court of Tehran Province.
4. Khaled Hosseini – a labour activist – was interrogated in the intelligence office of the police.
B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. The voice call facility of Telegram application was banned by an order from the Judiciary.
2. Relevant officials have prevented the holding of the graduation ceremony of clergy students in Maki Darololom in Zahedan, as well as a planned speech by Hossein Shariatmadari – the editor in chief of Kayhan Newspaper – at the Shahid Rajaei Teacher Training University.
C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. At least three individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:
State-controlled media have reported the executions of one individual in Mashhad and one individual in Arak in public.
The Judiciary officials have reported the execution of one individual in Kerman because of the crime of rape.
On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported the issuance of execution sentences in the prisons of Tabriz, Khorramabad, Borujerd, Bandarabbas, Shiraz and Rajaei Shahr. This news has not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. Some news sources have reported the issuance of death sentence for one individual – his nickname is Ferdos – and the confirmation of the death sentence for one individual in the Supreme Court due to Moharebeh (Declaring war against God) in Tehran.
3. Some news sources have reported the issuance of lashes sentences for one individual in Tehran Province for kidnapping a five-years old girl and sexually assaulting her, six individuals because of robbery, two individuals in Tehran Province due to sexual relationship outside marriage, two individuals in Tehran on charges of fraud and abuse of a girl and one individual in Tehran Province because of the crime of assistance in murder.
4. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavourable to the extent that some of them – such as Kamran Qaderi, Foad Rezazadeh, Ayub Asadi and Alireza Golipur are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment.
5. Mohammad Saber Malakraeisi was transferred to Evin Prison, Amir (Ali) Amirqoli was transferred to Rajaei Shahr Prison in Karaj. It should be noted that, this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
6. News media have reported the detention of around 30 individuals in Esfahan due to attending a party.
7. The police in the city of Hamedan have reported the detention of two tourists because of singing in the street and six tourists due to what has been described as frivolous behavior and violation of norms.
8. Ladies who travelled to China to participate in an open tournament, have been banned from participating in all sports competitions for one year because of their failure to comply with the rules of the Islamic Republic.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example, news reveals unsatisfactory employment and legal rights of then retired and sacked workers such as: of Yasuj Sugar Processing Factory, Semnan Rangin Nakh Factory, Zagros Steel Factory and Shiraz Telecommunication Factory, and workers of Parsilun Textile, Qu Edible Oil, Mamasani Dugar Loaf Factory, Masjed Soleiman Cement Factory, a crystal and glass manufacturer, Baqeran Cement Producing Project, lead and zinc mine of Anguran, and finally some teachers on casual contracts, and drivers of the municipality services in Abadan.
1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows: bus drivers of Zabol for four months, around 400 workers of Shushtar Municipality for three and half months, 150 workers of Ardakan Wood and Metal Factory for two months, around 4,000 workers of Ahvaz International Steel Industrial Group for two months, more than 80 workers of Ahvaz Municipality for two months, 34 workers of Abadan Refinery for one month and nurses of Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan for eight months.
2. Some 40 workers of Qazvin Glass Factory, 30 workers of Kosar Pharmacy, seven workers of Yasuj Sugar Processing Factory, four employees of Tania Shafaq Parand Factory, 27 workers of Darugar Factory and 35 workers of “Tulipers” and “Alborz Packaging” were sacked.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
Reports concerning situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas during the month of Farvardin.
1. A member of the Majlis has reported that around 50 per cent of all wetlands in Iran have dried up.
2. During some days of Farvardin, the air pollution levels reached to one and half time more than the permitted levels in Mehran and Dehloran [towns in western Iran near the Iraqi border].
3. A farmer was killed due to mine explosion in Shush. In addition, in Marivan, Baneh, Paveh, Mehran and Sardasht; the legs of a soldier, farmer and citizen were severed and four other individuals were injured too due to mine explosions.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Farvardin of 1396, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has emphasized that the consultative supervision of the Guardian Council is contrary to the constitution and limits the free choice of citizens, and therefore its abolition will lead to the creation of a sense of confidence and assurance about the integrity of the election.

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Reports

Once again, political rivalries have led to illegal detentions

by adminl
written by adminl

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Esfand 1395 [Iranian month corresponding to 19 February to 20 March 2017].

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the arrest of some reporters and researchers, and also some of the managers, activists and users of online social media, and announced that political rivalries once more have led to more restrictions on the freedom of expression, and to the illegal arrest of political, civil and cultural activists, in a manner reminiscent of the events surrounding the disputed presidential election in 1388 [2009].
This people-instituted organization has said: “a part of the sovereign ruling power that intends to expand the range of its extra-legal powers and authority, wants to create an atmosphere of intimidation which mutes any critical voice in its infancy.”
Therefore, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has said that the citizens are the ones who pay the price, with their lives and freedoms.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.
According to the website of the Centre for the Supporters of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said centre for the month of Esfand 1395, which has been published on 30 of Esfand 1395 [20 March 2017], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in February-March 2017

Introduction:
The year 1395 comes to its end while some reporters and researchers and some managers, activists and readers of virtual social media networks have been arrested because of their comments, or for publishing news. The detention of Morad Saqafi, Ramin Karimian, Ehsan Mazandarani and Tahereh Riahi – all of whom had criticized the existing conditions, with the aim of informing the public – indicates that a part of the ruling elite intends to expand the range of its extra-legal powers, and by creating an atmosphere of intimidation, it wants to be able to mute any critical voice in its infancy.
Restrictions on freedom of expression are to the extent that in the final days of the year, the general prosecutor reported that around 16,000 to 20,000 Telegram channels are blocked every week. He also complained about the failure to implement the directive to ban the use of Telegram. This is while the Minister of Communications and Information Technology has said that his ministry is under pressure to block Telegram.
The simultaneous blocking of Telegram channels such as Eslahat (Reforms) News, Reformists’ Assembly (Majmae Eslahtalaban), Zende Bad Eslahat (Long Live Reforms) and the Reformist Students (Daneshjoyan-e Eslahtalab), all of which used to disseminate news, was one of the most remarkable events during the month of Esfand. This was to such an extent that the advisor of the president, in a number of Tweets he has posted, has linked the arrests of some managers of reformist and pro-government channels to the presidential election in 1396.
Therefore, it seems political rivalries once more have led to more restrictions on the freedom of expression and also to the illegal arrests of political, civil and cultural activists, as it happened at the time of the disputed presidential election in 1388.
The report also provides a summary of human rights situation in Iran during the month of Esfand 1395, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in February-March 2017

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights
A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 36 people were detained and the names of them have been specified, as follows: Morad Saqafi – a researcher and Journalist; Ramin Karimian – a researcher; Hengameh Shahidi, Ehsan Mazandarani – two journalists; Farzaneh Jalali – a civil activist; Sepideh Qalayan (Qulian), Payam Shakiba – two university students; Mohammad Hassan Davudi – a political activist; Asad Moludzadeh – a labour activist; Balazadeh and Ansari – two teachers; Farhad Maleki – a citizen from Saqez; and Seyyed Ali Babazadeh and Ali Ahmadinia, two media activists.
Moreover, the prosecutor of Ramhormoz town has reported the detention of some individuals – without mentioning their names or specifying how many they were – because of what has been called as activity in news channels, while the prosecutor of Qazvin has reported the detention of a university faculty member due to what is called as “Blasphemy”. On the other hand, the Deputy Speaker of Majlis has reported the detention of 12 managers of the reformist or pro-government Telegram channels by a military intelligence agency. Accordingly, access to these channels has been blocked as well.
On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Anusheh Rezabakhsh and Soheil Zargarzadeh – two newly converted Christians – Naji Dahimi, Adnan Abiat and Lefteh Ghavabash (Jalali) – three citizens from Ahvaz; Morteza Moradpur – a civil activist; Majid Asadi – a university student activist; and Asadollah Hadi and Mohammad Banazadeh Amirkhizi – two former political prisoners.
It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.
Besmellah Barahavi – a Sunni religious activist – and Nana Badrian and Andre Vartanian – two citizens from Tajikistan – were detained during the last month.
2. Faezeh Hashemi – a political activist [and daughter of late Ayatollah Hashemi Rafsanjani] – was sentenced to six months in jail; Mohammad Hossein Karrubi – a political activist – was sentenced to six months imprisonment; Mohammad Nuri – a civil activist – was sentenced to three months in prison; Fathali Hosseini – the governor of Razan – was sentenced to 91 days in jail; Gharib Abdi – a political prisoner – was sentenced to five years imprisonment, and Hossein Daneshpayeh – a political prisoner – was sentenced to five years imprisonment. Additionally, Akbar Azad – a cultural activist – was sentenced to 10 years in jail and a two year exile; Alireza Farshi – a civil activist – was sentenced to 15 years in prison and two years of exile; Behnam Sheikhi – a civil activist – was sentenced to 10 years in jail and two years of exile; and Hamid Manafi – a civil activist – was sentenced to 10 years in prison and two years of exile. Moreover, the Appeal Court has sentenced Mohammad Hassan Tashakori – a labour activist –to pay a fine of 18,000,000 Rials, as well as 30 lashes, with the latter punishment suspended for two years; and Zia Savari – a citizen from Ahvaz – was sentenced to six years imprisonment in the appeal court. Emadodin Molazehi – a prisoner held on security charges – was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment and another security prisoner, Hafez Yaqubjahandideh, received a jail sentence for 10 years.
3. Sorush Farhadian – a journalist – was released on bail after he was briefed about the allegations against him.
B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. “Shakheh Sabz” Newspaper has been banned by the order of Judiciary official.
2. Judiciary officials prevented a speech by Mehrdad Bazrpash – a former Majlis member [and close aide of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad] – in Bojnurd University.
3. Relevant officials prevented Afruz Zabihi – a Baha’i citizen – from continuing her education at the university.
C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. At least seven individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:
One person was executed in public in Yazd. State-controlled media have said his crime was robbery and murder. One individual was executed in public in Boeinzahra. A Judiciary official has reported that his crime was robbery and murder. In addition, two individuals were executed in Sari and a person identified as “Mehdi” was executed in Qazvin. Their crime was murder according to some news sources. Furthermore, Reza was executed in Qazvin and one individual was executed in Semnan. News media have reported that their crime was possession and traffic of drugs.
On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported of executions in the prisons of Maragheh, Zahedan, Shahrud, Orumieh, Hamedan, Garmsar, Qezelhesar, Karaj, Bandarabbas, Kordestan, Kermanshah, Ilam, Shiraz and Chabahar. This news has not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. State-controlled media have reported the issuance of death sentences for “A-S” in Arak due to murder, five individuals in Tehran because of murder, one individual in Yazd because of first-degree murder, one individual in Razavi Khorasan because of the crime of murder, one individual in Tehran Province because of rape, three individuals in Kerman due to kidnapping and three individuals in Tehran Province because of kidnapping and rape. In addition, the prosecutor of Tehran has reported the issuance of death sentences against four individuals because of armed robbery and two individuals due to the charges of “corruption on earth” because of activities in a newly emerging sect. Moreover, some news sources have reported the issuance of death sentence for Marjan Davari – a translator. On the other hand, the Supreme Court has confirmed the death sentence against an individual in Tehran convicted of the crime of rape and theft.
3. The Supreme Court has confirmed the lashes sentence against an individual in Tehran found guilty of rape and theft.
Mrs “F-M” was sentenced to lashes due to financial corruption. In addition, a Judiciary official has reported the issuance of lashes sentences for two individuals due to negligence and lack of supervision, as well as participation in forgery of documents in Hormozgan Province.
4. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be poor to the extent that some of them – such as Saeid Rezaei, Mohammad Nazari, Abdolkarim Shahbakhsh and Gholamreza (Rubin) Shahini are sick but no serious action has been taken in order to provide them with treatment.
5. Golrokh Iraei and Arash Sadeqi – a prisoner couple – were not allowed to visit each other.
6. Relevant officials prevented the holding of ceremonies marking the death anniversary of Behnud Ramezani – a university student who was killed in 1389.
7. Some news sources have reported the detention of 30 individuals in Ahvaz and 14 individuals in Sepidan, while Judiciary officials have reported the detention of 44 individuals in Mashhad and 120 others in Pardis due to attending a party.
8. Police have reported the arrest of 1,437 individuals at Chaharshanbeh Suri ceremonies [Iranian bonfire night falling shortly before Nowruz].

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning the situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example: news reveals unsatisfactory employment terms and conditions and salary and wage situation for workers in a number of units such as: Okia Khodro, Sufian Cement, Parsilun, Pars Qu, Farnakh, Naznakh, Esfahan Polyacryl Company, Mamasani sugar mill, Bolurak, Ahvaz National Steel, Esfehan Tile, Azarkhak Cooperation, Azmun Felez, Kayson, Neybar of Haft Tapeh Agro-Industry Complex, Rudbar Municipality, Ahvaz Municipality, municipalities of Meshkin Shahr, Asaluyeh, Zobahan of Ardabil, Ahvaz Steel, Meshkin Shahr Abfa, Road Construction Project in Ramian City, Coach Transport Cooperative No 1, Aq Darband Mine in Sarakhs, Ardabil Iron Foundry, security guards of Gachsaran Oil and Gas Exploitation Company, Ahvaz National Steel Industries Group and staffs of hospitals and medical centres of Gilan Medical Science.
1. Many workers have not received any payments for several months. The names of the offending units, number of workers affected, and the period of time when they have not paid (at the time of writing this report) are as follows:
Some 80 workers of Ahvaz Municipality for three months, some workers of Raja Cooperation for two months, around 80 workers of Abadan Refinery for two months, 300 workers of Ball Bearings Making of Tabriz for three months, workers of Electric Meter Device Making for six months, workers of Borujerd Municipality for six months, workers of Payandan Cooperation for six months, Compressor Making Factory of Tabriz for four months, 80 workers of Iranian Low Consumption Industries Factory for nine months, workers of Mashinsazi Factory of Tabriz for three months, 370 workers of Pars Steel in Sabzevar for four months, 230 workers of Esfandaqeh Mine for four months, 350 workers of Qazvin Glass for five months, 50 workers of Negin Coal Mine for three months, 350 workers of Nakh Alborz for three months, workers of Arak Mashinsazi for four months, 100 workers of Zarrin Nakh Shomal for three months, 500 worker of Persian Gulf Star Refinery for four months, workers of Bahr Gostar Hormoz Cooperation for two months, 400 workers of Kavir Yazd Tile for three months and the guards of forests for four months and drivers of Tarzeh Coal Mine for five months.
2. Some 50 workers of one of the provincial representative offices of Iran Khodro [major car-making company] in Gorgan lost their jobs due to the closure of the office.
On the other hand, around 70 workers of “Kayhan Bod” Factory, 51 workers of Deniz Petro-Industry, 35 staff of Andimeshk Hospital and 40 workers of Almehdi Aluminum Factory in Hormozgan were dismissed from their jobs as part of financial cuts.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
Reports concerning the situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas during this month.
1. The density of dust particles in the air reached to 18 times more than the permitted level in Abadan during some days of Esfand.
2. One individual was killed and another was injured in Dehloran due to land mine explosion. Furthermore, an individual was killed in Mehran because of mine explosion and a teenager was injured in Shush by another mine explosion.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Esfand of 1395, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has referred to the events of the last year, especially during the month of Esfand, which was characterised by the arrest of some media activists. It emphasised that the citizens are the ones who pay the cost of various political struggles and infighting, with their life and liberty. Therefore, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights points to the continued presence of adverse conditions in human rights situation in Iran during the year 1395, and believes this is the result of the government paying no attention to the rights of citizens.

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Reports

Education Sector’s Share of the State Development Budget is Inadequate

by adminl
written by adminl

The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Shahrivar 1395 [22 August to 21 September 2016]

Education Sector’s Share of the State Development Budget is Inadequate

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Shahrivar 1395 [Iranian month starting 22 August 2016].
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, has referred to the beginning of the 1395-96 academic year and said, according to government and public institutions, a large number of schools in the country are in a dilapidated state and badly in need of major repairs, but these have been delayed for various reasons including the inadequate share of the education sector from the state’s total development budget.
Therefore, this people-instituted organization has noted that the Fourth Development Plan has provided guarantees for equitable access to educational opportunities, the elimination of educational deprivation, and the payment of various costs – such as health and hygiene. The Centre has then emphasized the need for changes in the budget that the education sector is earmarked to receive from the state’s development budget.
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights pointed to the report by the Majlis Research Centre regarding the provisions made by the Fourth Development Plan to have approved funds available for retrofitting and strengthening the school buildings. It then criticized the inattention to providing an adequate budget for education.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of: “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.
According to the website of the Centre for the Supporters of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Shahrivar 1395, which has been published on 4th of Mehr 1395 [25 September 2016], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in August-September 2016

Introduction:
The academic year of 1395-96 has got under way while according to government and public institutions, a large number of schools in the country are in a poor state and in need of major repairs, but these have been delayed for various reasons including the inadequate share of the education sector from the state’s total development budget. Of course, this is something which can expose our children to serious risks in several different arneas.
According to published reports, some schools in some provinces such as Lorestan, Sistan Va Baluchestan and Khuzaestan are without appropriate buildings for the education of students in a way that sometimes pre-fabricated hangars and large tents or sheds are being used as schools. In addition, the shortage and inadequacy of schools is not only confined to deprived and remote areas of the country but, some schools in Tehran and Khorasan Razavi Provinces also need reconstruction and renovation.
This is while the Majlis Research Centre has published a report regarding the provisions made by the Fourth Development Plan to have approved funds for strengthening the school buildings, declaring that the proportion of the 1395 Budget that has been allocated to that area is far below the base set by the law.
School shortages has forced schools to operate two or three shifts every day, and these arrangements have had devastating impact on the education of children. A government official has reported that in 1392, there were around 141,000 pupils who had been deprived from education. However, unofficial statistics suggests a much higher figure.
This is while the huge extent of financial abuse and government waste resulting from the lack of transparency and the immunity from prosecution granted to some officials have significantly harmed the budget. Nevertheless, we are witnessing continuing inattention to the cost of education. For example, the share of education is equal to 63.1 per cent of development budget. However, the market share has improved 32.17 percent but this digit has been decreased 7.2 per cent in comparison to 1394.
In addition to the above issues, the lack of attention to the demands of the teachers has made them disheartened and frustrated. Because not only their gatherings and protests have been ignored with no answer, but some of them have experienced prison terms due to their trade union activities.
The report also provides a summary of the human rights situation in Iran during the month of Shahrivar 1395, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.
Human Rights Situation in Iran in August-September 2016

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights
A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 38 people were detained and the names of them have been specified. They were: Sadra Mohaqeq, Foad Sadeqi – two journalists; Yashar Soltani – a media activist; Mohammad Mahdavifar, Mostafa Khalilirad – two civil activists; Sahar Behehsti – Sattar Beheshti’s sister (a blogger who died in detention); Obeidollah Shihaki and Amin Shihaki – two Sunni religious activists – .
On the other hand, some news media have reported the detention of Jasem Korushat, Andolrahman Gharbavi, Seyyed Abdolhakim Musavi, Reza Obeidavi, Mohammad Heidari, Yunes Abiat, Jabbar Abiat, Saddam Abiat, Karim Achrash, Ashur Khasraji, Karim Saedi, Jamil Savari, Hamid Savari, Ali chanani, Qasem Chanani, Kamal Savari, Saeid Oceidavi, Ahmad Heidari, Mokhtar Seilavi, Mohammad Savari, Jasem Gharbavi, Qasem Gharbavi, Fazel Obeidavi, Seyyed Musa Musavi and Saeid Heidari – 25 citizens of Khuzestan; Rameil Bet Tamarz, Amin Afshar Naderi, Hadi Asgari, Mohammad Dehnavi and Amir Saman Dashti – five newly converted Christians and Christian citizens -.
It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.
Moreover, Jila Shahriari – a Baha’i citizen who was detained during the last days of Mordad – was released on a bail of 200,000,000 Toman.
2. Isa Saharkhiz – a journalist and political prisoner – was sentenced to 21 months in jail in one case, Hedayat Aqaei – a member of the Executives of Construction Party [Hezb-e Kargozaran-e Sazandegi] and previous political prisoner – was sentenced to two years imprisonment; Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe – an Iranian-British dual citizen who is currently serving a term in prison – was sentenced to five years imprisonment; Jahad Asakereh – a poet – was sentenced to two years in jail and Hassan Rastegari Majd – and Iranian-Turkish citizen – was sentenced to one year imprisonment term once more. In addition, Mohammad Reza Fathi – a blogger and journalist – was sentenced to 495 lashes in the appeal court.
On the other hand, the sentence of 19 years and six months imprisonment term of Amir (Ali) Amirqoli – a political prisoner – was reduced to eight years in the appeal court and the sentence of one year imprisonment term of Mahdieh Golru – a former political prisoner – was changed to fine.
3. The court trial session of Heshmatollah Tabarzadi, a political prisoner; and Jafar Azimzadeh and Shapur Ehsanirad – two labour activists – were held. In addition, the appeal court of Narges Mohammadi – Vice President of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights – was held. On the other hand, the Revolutionary Court has issued the indictment for Mohammadreza Khatami, Ali Shakurirad, Mohsen Safaei Farahani, Hossein Kashefi, Azar Mansuri, Mohammad Naeimipur and Hamid Reza Jalaeipur – seven political activists of Islamic Iran Participation Party [Hezb-e Mosharaket-e Iran-e Eslami].
4. Ahmad Montazeri – the son of Ayatollah Montazeri – was released temporarily on a bail of 70 million Toman.
5. The relevant officials prevented Mansureh Behkish – a civil activist – from leaving the country.
B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. The Press Jury has found the monthly publication “Bist Saleha” [the 20 years olds] guilty.
2. The relevant officials have prevented the holding of concerts by Hafez Nazeri in Yazd and Hamid Asgari in Behshahr.
3. The relevant officials prevented the delivery of a public lecture in the city of Yazd by Mohammas Taqi Fazel Meybodi – a religious seminary professor.
4. The Judiciary officials have banned “Ana”, “Mowj” and “Borna” new agencies and “Persian Khodro”, “9 Sobh”, “Memari News” and “System Online” publications. Moreover, the police in the city of Esfahan have reported that 50 internet channels, pages and groups have been blocked due to activities against morality, security and religion.
5. Reza Roygari – a cinema actor – has reported that he has been barred from his professional activity during the past four years. In addition, Jahangir Kosari – a TV presenter and producer – has reported that Rakhshan Bani Etemad – a female film director – and Baran Kosari – an actress – have also been banned from working in cinema.
C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. Some 18 individuals were executed in this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names and other details are as follows:
“H-Gh”, “M-A”, “H-J”, “A-S” and “A-M” were executed in Hormozgan Province and “A-B” and “J-P” were executed in Rasht. The Judiciary officials have reported that they had been executed due to the crime of possession and transportation of drugs. In addition, news media have reported the execution of five individuals in Yazd due to storage and transportation of drugs.
“Sajjad-A” and “Gudarz-A” were executed in Shiraz. State-controlled media have reported that their crime was armed robbery. “Khosro-H” was executed in Shiraz. State-controlled media have reported that his crime was rape and murder. In addition, a Judiciary official has reported the execution of one individual in Ardebil and news me dia have reported the execution of two individuals in Yazd due to the crime of murder.
On the other hand, some unofficial news websites have reported the execution of death penalties in Karaj Prison. The news have not been confirmed or rejected by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. State-controlled media have reported the issuance of death sentence for “Reza”, “Parviz” and “Mohammad” in Tehran due to the crime of first-degree murder; one individual in Tehran because of kidnapping and rape; one individual in Varamin because of murder and three individuals because of murder.
3. State-controlled media have reported the issuance of lashes sentence for a woman because of sexual relationship without marriage, one actor because of sexual affair without marriage and a man due to the charges of harassing a girl. An Afghan citizen was sentenced to lashes due to “entrance with force, harassment and threating”. Moreover, state-controlled media have reported the issuance of suspended lashes sentence in Rasht because of harassing and eating a snake. On the other hand, state-controlled media have reported the confirmation of lashes sentence for one individual because of lure women and girls.
4. The Judiciary official has reported the issuance of sentences to amputate four fingers of several individuals in Tehran for the crime of theft. No further details have been given.
5. The health situation of some political prisoners is still reported to be unfavourable to the extent that some of them – such as – Mohammadreza Nekunam, Afshin Baymani and Kamal Forughi – are sick but no serious action has been taken for their treatment. Also, Maryam (Nasim) Naqash Zargaran is returned to the prison without finishing her treatment process.
6. The relevant officials prevented the holding of a memorial ceremony for Shahrokh Zamani – a labour activist who died in the prison. In addition, the officials prevented the participation of some individuals who wanted to attend in a gathering to mark Sattar Beheshti’s birthday – a blogger who died in the prison.
7. Ali Moezi was transferred to Rajaei Shahr Prison. It should be noted that this transfer has been carried out without any specific reason and contrary to the regulations and rules of the prisons internal affairs.
8. State-controlled media have reported the detention of 26 individuals in Tehran and 30 individuals in Rasht; the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps has reported the detention of 20 individuals in Shiraz, a Judiciary official has reported the detention of 40 individuals in Gorgan and 34 in Kerman. All these detentions were due attending parties. This is while an official in the Revolution Guards has reported the detention of 400 citizens during the first five months of this year because of “breaking the accepted norms” in the promenades of Dezful.
9. Police have reported the detention of three people involved in “modeling activists” in Zahedan; the Judiciary officials have reported the detention and summons of 20 modeling activists and the closure of six atelier and four women’s beauty salons in Ardebil and the closure of eight complexes that were dealing with modeling and detention of 30 individuals in Mashhad. State-controlled media have reported the detention or summons of 170 admins of groups or social channels in Fars Province because of “anti-morality, criminal modeling cycle and insulting religious beliefs and sanctities”, as well as the detention of the managers and administrators of some virtual groups in Semnan Province without mentioning their names and numbers.
This is while news media have reported the detention or summons of the administrators of some 450 internet pages, groups or channels in social media – without mentioning any details – which were active in the fields of politics, religious or modeling and fashion.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas for example: news reveals the inadequacy of the salaries and benefits of many workers, including the employees of Haft Tapeh Agro-Industry Complex, the operational units of Parsian Zoone; Cyber Birangan Contracting Company; Mahabad Agro-Industry Complex; Farnakh and Naznakh Factories in Qazvin; Qoflkar Lock Making Factory; Navard Pipe Factory in Ahvaz; Polydactyl; Iran Chuka Factory; Golnar Edible Oil Factory; Pelletizing Factory of Ardakan; Persian Gulf Star Refinery; PVC Factory of Semnan; Razi Petrochemical Complex; Mehr Iran Heater Making Factory; DMT Company, which is related to the Polydactyl Company of Esfahan; Raja Railway Company; Karin Ahvaz Production Complex; Zagros Steel; Alborz Steel; Imam Khomeini Port Authority; Tus Tile Factory; Sadid Rikhtehgar Factory; Rashtkhar Municipality; Ahvaz Municipality; Rasht Municipality, Borujerd Municipality; Sisakht Municipality; Drainage part of Shiraz Subway Train Company; the Urban Train Project of Ahvaz; Dehloran Cement Plant; Sugar Loaf Factory of Varamin; the Tax Administration Centre of Tehran and the contractual teachers of Kolaleh and a group of preschool and nursery teachers and educators working for the Literacy Movement.
1. At the time of compilation of this report, the wages of 78 workers of Loshan Municipality have not been paid for four months, 126 workers of “Hamil Food Industry” have not received their salaries for four months, more than 300 workers of Tarzeh Coal Mine have not been paid for four months, more than 20 workers of Azarit Company in Tabriz have not been paid for nine months, around 300 workers of Shustar Municipality have not received their wages for four months, around 300 workers of “Manganese and Narch” in Qom have not been paid for three months.
2. Around 450 workers of Karun Cement Factory were made unemployed after the closure of that industrial unit.
On the other hand, 20 workers of Rahaneh Factory, 30 workers of “Shadgol” Oil Factory, and four contract workers of Jam Petrochemical were unemployed. In addition, Court of Administrative Justice has confirmed the sentence of dismissal of 39 workers of Karun Cement.
3. ILNA News Agency has reported the detention of 10 workers in Imam Khomeini Special Economic Zone due to the complaints lodged against them by their employer.
4. The police has reported the closure of 825 shops nationwide because they were selling sweatshirts and apparel that were deemed to be “unconventional”.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
Reports concerning the situation in cultural heritage and environment areas also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these fields during this month.
1. A large part of Lashgarabad Historical Hill in Savojbolagh – with the antiquity of 5,000 years – have been destroyed.
2. Mohammad Elyasi – a child – was killed in Sardasht due to land mine explosion. Moreover, three teenagers were injured in Sarvabad, while Fazel Hafez Tarafi has lost his leg in Dasht-e Azadegan because of mine explosion. In addition, two individuals are suffering from post-explosion shock syndrome in the wake of mine explosion in the border town of Qasr-e Shirin.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Shahrivar of 1395, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights voiced its dismay that while different governments of the Islamic Republic of Iran have always remained committed to ensuring sufficient budget for armament and military expenses, they have tended to ignore the necessity of providing the adequate budget required by the education sector.
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has noted that the Fourth Development Plan has provided guarantees for equitable access to educational opportunities, the elimination of educational deprivation, and the payment of various costs – such as health and hygiene. The Centre has then emphasized the need for changes in education sector’s share of the state’s development budget.

Note: For further information regarding the above reports, please refer to the following news websites: Iranian Students News Agency (ISNA), Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iranian Labour News Agency (ILNA), Fars news agency, Mehr news agency, Young Journalists Club news agency, CDHR website, JARAS, Committee of Human Rights Reporters, Nedaye Azadi, Baztab, HRANA, Ghanoon, Kaleme, Mohebbat News, Sunni Online, International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran, Majzooban-e Noor, Melli Mazhabi, Nedaye Sabze Azadi, Radio Zamaneh, Radio Farda and BBC.

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Reports

Iran does not have a house of justice

by adminl
written by adminl

Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Mordad 1395 [Iranian month corresponding to 22 July to 21 August 2016]:

Iran does not have a house of justice

In continuation of its monthly reports, the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran during the month of Mordad 1395 [22 July to 21 August 2016].
The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, which is presided over by Shirin Ebadi, referring to the way the legal cases of defendants facing political or ideological charges are being handled in the Revolution Courts, has announced that there is not, and there has never been, a fair trial for the dissidents and non-conformists in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Therefore, this people-instituted organization has referred to the first demand of the people during the Constitutional Movement [in 1905] that was “The Establishment of the House of Justice”, and has written that: “Iran has no house of justice”.
The Center for the Defenders of Human Rights continues with referring to the executions in Iran’s prisons in 1367 [1988] – which it has labeled as “the tragedy of mass extermination of political prisoners and prisoners of consciences in the year 1367” – and has announced that even now, the cases of political dissidents are still being referred to a handful of judges who are trusted by the Ministry of Intelligence and the Intelligence Organization of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps.
This people-instituted organization has added that having an independent and fair Judiciary is the most important means for achieving democracy and has announced that the existence of independent courts and impartial and efficient judges are can help resolve many social and political problems.
Furthermore, in its report, which is published in both Farsi and English languages, this people-instituted organisation has reviewed the situation of human rights in Iran under the three main headings of: “Civil and political rights”, “social and economic rights”, and “cultural heritage and the environment”.
According to the website of the Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights, the text of the report by the said center for the month of Mordad 1395, which has been published on 2nd of Shahrivar 1395 [23 August 2016], is as follows:
A Brief Report on Human Rights Situation in Iran in July-August 2016

Introduction:
The release of an audio tape containing Ayatollah Montazeri protesting against the wave of executions in the summer of 1367 [1988, shortly before the end of the Iran-Iraq war] has once again revived the memory of the execution of the dissident prisoners in that year. This reminder is important because not only in the early years of the revolution, but even until the present time, the dissidents have been deprived of a fair trial, to the extent that all trials of the Revolution Courts have been conducted in the closed chambers and not only journalists, but also the family of the accused, have not been allowed to watch and monitor these sessions. In all cases, political prisoners and prisoners of conscience have been deprived of access to a lawyer during the investigation phase and have been held in solitary confinement for a long time. In most cases, the defendants were tortured physically and mentally, to be forced to put down on paper what the security interrogators wanted them to write. In many trials, the security investigators have played the role of the prosecutor in the courts and had a devastating impact on the trial’s outcome.
This is while some individuals who defended “Revolutionary” and summary courts of only a few minutes duration in the first few months and years after the Islamic Revolution, themselves became victims of the same kind of injustice in later years.
Unfortunately, the situation remains similar to past and the dissidents are deprived of a fair trial once again, and as a result, they are arrested, tried and sentenced and a number of them even die over their beliefs. Today as in the past, protecting national security and preserving the gains of the revolution is an excuse for ignoring justice.
After the passage of several years since “the tragedy of mass extermination of political prisoners and prisoners of consciences in the year 1367”, the cases of political dissidents are still being referred to a handful of judges who are trusted by the Ministry of Intelligence and the Intelligence Organization of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, rather than by the Judiciary, so that in that manner, the verdict they favour is issued at the end of the proceedings. The Special Clerical Court, whose legal basis is still questionable, still refuses to accept defence lawyers who are the choice of the defendants.
All these painful experiences are indicative of the lack of independence of the judiciary. This is while the first demand of the people during the Constitutional Movement was “The Establishment of the House of Justice” that has not been achieved yet and this is a painful return to the situation before the establishment of a constitutional political system in Iran, to the extent that it could be said that “Iran has no house of justice”.
The report also provides a summary of human rights situation in Iran during the month of Mordad 1395, as follows. This report is based on information published by various media channels and websites, whose accuracy has been verified. The report is appearing under three separate sections, and in Farsi and English languages.

Human Rights Situation in Iran in July-August 2016

Section 1: Civil, Cultural and Political Rights
A) Situation of Nonconformist Political and Social Activists
1. During this month, more than 33 people were detained and the names of them have been specified, who were:
The Revolution Court has reported the detention of a woman in Golestan Province (without mentioning her name) due to “management of five anti-religious channels” in Telegram. In addition, police has reported the detention of three individuals in northern cities (without mentioning their names) due to what has been called “blasphemy”. The persecutor of Tehran has reported the detention of one Iranian with dual citizenship (without mentioning his/her name) due to having “connections with the British Intelligence Service”.
On the other hand, some news sources have reported the detention of Jafar Rostamirad – a citizens from Ardebil; Amin Ahanin, Mohammad Malak Khataei, Mohammad Elyasi, Edmond Khachaturian, Samaneh Shahbazifar, Arash Qodsi, Fatemeh Amini, Maryam Zonubi, Mohsen Khubyari, Hamed Sepidkar and Naser Navard Goltapeh – 11 newly converted Christians; Jalal Shishvani and Shahnaz Tusi – two citizens form Maragheh City; Behzad Qanbari – a citizen from Tabriz; Vahid Purtahmasb and Yusef Eyvaz Zadeh – two fans of the Mystic Ring (Erfan-e Halqeh); Yashar Rezavani – a Baha’i citizen; Rahim Bakhsh – a citizen from Sarbaz; Riaz Botrani and Walid Obeydavi – two citizens from Ahvaz; Seyyed Mohammad Miri and Qasem Qanbari – two citizens from Gachsaran; Ali Mobin, Arash Kamyab, Shahab Sharifi and Milad Yazdi – four artists – and Abdolrahman Siryazehi – a Sunni religious activist -.
Moreover, some individuals were detained in different provinces such as West Azarbaijan, East Azarbaijan and Ardebil due to attending in protest rallies.
It should be noted that some of the detainees were released temporarily on bail after a few days until the date of their trial.
In addition, Siavash Kaliaei – a follower of Yarsan Religion – and Hassan Bozorgzadeh – a citizen from Gachsaran – were detained for some hours.
2. Payman Mirzaei – a supporter of the Mystic Ring grouping – was detained and transferred to prison to serve five years and three months imprisonment.
3. Ebrahim Madadi – a labour activist – was sentenced to five years and three months in jail, Isa Saharkhiz – a journalist who is currently in jail – was sentenced to three years imprisonment in a new case, Afsaneh Bayazidi – a university student activist who is currently serving in prison – was sentenced to four years in jail and exile to Kerman’s Prison, Suma Bazargan – a university student – was sentenced to two years in prison, Misaq Yazdan Nejad – a previous political prisoner – was sentenced to five years in jail in a new case and Mojtaba Purhassan, Abbas Mohammad Sadeqpur, Mohammadreza Mobaraki, Abdollah Alireza Nejad, Mehran Zaki and Ehsan Arshadi – six citizens of Gachsaran – were sentenced to two years imprisonment and one year suspended imprisonment and two years ban from membership in political parties and groups for two years. In addition, Mohammad Mahdavifar – a poet – was sentenced to 30,000,000 IRR in the Appeal Court and Saman Safarzaei – a journalist – was sentenced to two years imprisonment.
4. The court trial session of Najibeh Salehzadeh – a citizen; Nazanin Zaghari Ratklif – an Iranian-Brittish citizen who is currently serving a sentence in prison – and Matin Khezri and Hossein Ahmadpur – two citizens of Bukan who are currently in prison – were held.
Moreover, the appeal trials of Amir (Ali) Amirqoli – a civil activist who is currently in jail – and Athena Daeimi, Omid Alishaneas, Tasu Rostami, Ali Nuri – four civil activists; Mohammad Hossein Daeimi – a citizen; Ali Khanafareh, Esmaeil Rahimian (Dahimi), Rasul Dahimavi (Dahmimi), Ebrahim Dahimavi (Dahimi), Ali Beitsayah, Mehdi Khanipur (Halafi), Jaber Sakhravi, Aref Sarakhi, ABdolkazem Heidari, Shokrollah Sakhravi, Mohammad Khanipur (Halafi) – 11 citizens of Khuzestan Province – were held.
5. Mohamamdreza Khatami – a political activist – was summoned to the magistrate court and Ahmad Montazeri – the son of the late Ayatollah Montazeri – was summoned to the Special Clerical Court and Akbar Jahangiri – a citizen from Ahar ; Amir Hossein Maqsudlu – an art activist; Mozaffar Salehnia – a labour activist – and Saeid Jamebozorgi – the president of the Islamic Azad University in Hamdean – were summoned to the magistrate court due to organizing a vulgar party. Akbar Alipur – a labour activist – was summoned to the appeal court. Also, Sharif Saeid Panah – a labour activist – was summoned to the Office of Intelligence of the city of Sanandaj and was interrogated.
6. The prosecutor of Tehran has prevented Seyyed Mohammad Khatami – Iran’s former President – from attending a venue where a play was being staged.
B) Situation Regarding Cultural Rights
1. Press Jury has found the editors in chief of Entekhab Website and “Mehrnameh” Monthly guilty.
2. The Judiciary officials have prevented the holding of different concerts in Khorasan Razavi Province such as Salar Aghili’s concert in Sabzevar.
3. The relevant officials prevented a planned speech by Lotfollah Meisami – a political activist and the editor in chief of Cheshmandaz Iran Website – in the town of Malayer.
4. The relevant officials prevented the screening of documentary movie “Mr. Prime Minister “.
5. The relevant officials prevented the presence of people at the grave side of [famous contemporary poet] Ahmad Shamlu on his death anniversary.

C) Other Instances of Human Rights Abuse
1. Some 50 individuals were executed during this month. The complete names of some of them are still not clear but judicial authorities or government-controlled media have confirmed their executions. Some of the names are as follows:
The Judiciary officials have reported the execution of around 20 individuals in Rajaei Shahr Prison in Karaj due to has been called “links with the Takfiri terrorist groups”.
“Shahram Amiri” was executed in Tehran. News media have reported that his crime was spying.
“M-P” and “A-A” were executed in public in Banadar Abbas. A Judiciary official has reported that their crimes were rape and kidnapping. In addition, a Judiciary official has reported the execution of three individuals in Gorgan because of rape.
“M-R” was executed in public in Saveh. News media have said that he was found guilty for the crime of armed robbery.
The Judiciary of the West Azarbaijan Province has reported the execution of “Mohammad Abdollahi” and the Judiciary of Khuzestan province has announced the execution of three individuals in Ahvaz due to Moharebeh [Declaring War against God].
News media have reported the execution of one individual in public in Jahrom due to the crime of Moharebeh [waging war against God and Islam].
News media have reported the execution of one individual in Mashhad, two individuals in Rajaei Shahr Prison, one individual in public in Ravansar, one individual in public in Sonqor and one individual in Rasht due to the crime of murder.
“H-R” was executed in Rasht. News media have said that his crime was transporting and possession of drugs. “Mojtaba-N” and “Majid-H” were executed in Qazvin. The persecutor of Qazvin has reported that their crime was transporting and possession of drugs. In addition, the Judiciary of West Azarbaijan Province has reported the execution of four individuals in this province, the Judiciary of Fars has reported the execution of one individual in public in Kazerun and the Judiciary of Gilan has reported the execution of four individuals in Rasht because of transporting and possession of drugs.
On the other hand, some unofficial News websites have reported some executions in the prisons of Saqez, Taybad, Salmas, Miandoab, Gorgan and Oromieh. These reports have not been confirmed or denied by the Judiciary officials or state-controlled media.
2. The lashes sentence of “A-B” was carried out in public in Bandar Abbas. News media said he was convicted of the crime of robbery.
3. State-controlled media have reported the issuance of death sentence for four individuals due to the crime of murder. In addition, news media have reported the issuance of a death sentence against an Afghan citizen because of the crime of first-degree murder.
4. According to some news media, a number of child labourers in Kermanshah have had their heads shaved as a form of punishment.
5. The relevant official have not returned the dead body of Mohammad Abdollahi to his family after he was executed for the crime of Moharebeh. Moreover, the relevant officials buried the body of “Purandokht Misaqi” – a Baha’i citizen – without the permission of her family.
6. A Judiciary official has reported the detention of 20 Sufi individuals; the Judiciary of Damavand reported the detention of 50 individuals in Absard City; the persecutor of Amol has reported the detention of 30 individuals in the city, News media have reported the detention of 29 individuals in Karaj and 60 individuals in Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park and police has announced the detention of 150 individuals in Tehran and 63 people in Shiraz due to attending in a party.
7. Police has reported the blocking of 20 modeling websites and web logs.
8. Police prevented females from riding bicycles in the town of Marivan.

Section 2: Social and Economic Rights
Reports concerning the situation regarding social and economic also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas, for example: news reports reveal the unacceptable employment rights and pay levels of workers in a number of industrial units, including the Raja Electricity Contract Company, “Ravanshir Steel” industrial company, Damash Mineral Water Factory, Khoramabbad Municipality, Azadi Sport Complex, Yasuj Sugar Factory, Tehran Expressway Project, “Qofl Kar” Factory, Ahvaz Municipality, “Mashin Sazi” Factory in Tabriz, The Rail Track Company of Tehran-Varamin Subway Train, Mahabad Agroindustrial Complex, Azadshahr Municipality, Setareh Khalej-e Fars Refinery, Adonis Factory, Ahvaz Sugar and Refined Sugar Factory, Farsh-e Pars Factory in Qazvin, “Iran Compressor Making” Factory, “Subway Train Project of Shiraz”, Khazar Tile Factory, “Manganese and Narch Mine in Qom, “East Alborz” Coal Mine, Ahvaz Subway Train, Hafez Tile Factory, Bafq Iron-ore Factory, Golris in Abhar, “Farayand Steel Making” Factory and former workers of Rah-e Dur Iran telecommunication, around 200 teachers of the Literacy Movement, the workers of Agricultural Insurance Fund and the sacked employees of the Majlis Library.
1. The payments of 120 workers of “Bam Old Castle” have been delayed for four months; around 45 workers of Hozian Aligudarz Dam Project have not received their salaries for six months; some workers of Alborz Steel have not been paid for seven months; 208 workers of “Sardasht” Municipality have not received any wages for three months; around 300 workers of POLYACRYL Company have not been paid their wages for three months and around 100 workers of Tangeh Bijar Gas Field have not been paid for five months, at the time of compilation of this report.
2. Some 80 workers of Zagros Khodro, 10 workers of “Moqasami Glass and Mirror” Factory and 20 workers of Fulad Gaz Zarrin were made jobless after the closure of these commercial units.
In addition, 15 workers of farming and livestock pesticide factory “Shimi Keshavarz National Company” and five workers of Abyek Municipality were fired.
3. The Police of Tehran Province have reported the official closure and sealing of 92 trade units in this province and the relevant officials have reported the closure of 15 trade units because what was described as supplying “unconventional clothing articles”.

Section 3: Cultural Heritage and Environment
1. Reports concerning situation regarding cultural heritage and environment also point to the continued presence of unfavourable conditions in these areas during this month to the extent that Bakhtehgan Lake is the second salt lake of Iran that has gone dry.

Conclusion:
At the end of the report for the month of Mordad of 1395, The Centre for the Defenders of Human Rights has emphasized that having an independent and fair Judiciary is the most important means for achieving democracy. It has announced that the existence of independent courts and impartial and efficient judges can help resolve many social and political problems.

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